EVERTON 3 NOTTINGHAM FOREST
March 2 1925. The Daily Courier.
BLUES IN A WINNING VEIN.
FINE RECOVERY AFTER LOSING A GOAL.
By F.McN.
By vanquishing Nottingham Forest at Goodison Park, Everton gained a more comfortable position in the League, though they are not yet out of the wood. Present appearances, however, point to the Forest and Preston North End going into the Second Division unless Everton or one of the other clubs immediately above, fall to pieces. Everton posses seven points lead over the Forest, and they should make further headway in the remaining games. It was only their third victory this year, Tottenham and Burnley being the other two clubs, to forfeit the maximum points to Everton.
RAGGED PLAY.
There was much ragged football in the Everton-Forest game; the teams as a whole rarely reaching a high standard, though there were many brilliant individual flashes. At one time in the second half there appeared danger of the game coming to a premature close so dark did it become. It was difficult to follow the ball from the stand, and the position of play could only be guessed by the actions of the players. The light improved towards the close and the game ran its full course. The Forest opened in promising style, Walker scoring hasty from Gibson's centre in three minutes. It was a brilliant effort on the part of Irvine which placed Everton on level terms, and again the Irishman was in the main responsible for the second goal, when he ran through the defence, and when the ball bounded off the goalkeeper, Broad had only to place it into the empty goal. Broad got the third goal in the second half from Chedgzoy's centre. Everton finished much better than in the match against Cardiff. Irvine was the forward of the day, the Irishman playing with the greatest dash and skill, and resource. Frequently he nonplussed the visiting backs by his elusive dribbles. He was unfortunate in not scoring more than one goal. Chedgzoy rendered valuable assistance and Broad showed an ability to get the ball into the net. The left wing was rarely prominent.
McBAIN AT HIS BEST.
McBain revelled in the going, and he demonstrated once and for all that centre half is his proper position. His tackling and placing were alike skilful and neat. Reid too played well, and Rooney justified the confidence of the directors. He tackled cleanly, and had an eye to placing the ball in good position for the men in front. Rooney only needs experience to bring him into the front flight. McDonald again stood out by reason of his sterling defensive equalities and O'Donnell also showed district skill, though inclined to be ultra cool and dribble for position before clearing. He will improve on better acquaintance with senior methods. Harland made several good saves. On the Forest side no one did better than Morgan, a real terrier, who always seemed to be where the fight was thickest. With head and feet he was continually in the picture. The backs kicked strongly in a strenuous game on a heavy ground, and forward Walker and Gibson were the outstanding figures. The Forest side on the whole, however, did not create any great stir. They were seen at the best in the first quarter of an hour, but failed to maintain the standard set. Teams : - Everton: - Harland goal, McDonald and O'Donnell, backs, Rooney, McBain (captain), and Reid, half-backs, Chedgzoy, Irvine, Broad, Williams, and Weaver, half-backs, Nottingham Forest: - Bennett, goal, Bulling and Thompson, backs, Belton, Morgan, and Wallace, half-backs, Gibson Flood, Walker, Morris, and Burton, forwards.

DERBY COUNTY RESERVES BEATEN.
Derby Daily Telegraph - Monday 02 March 1925
Derby County Reserves took part another good contest in Central League, this time with Everton Reserves on the Baseball Ground on Saturday. The visitors had Virile forward line, on view with a capable left wing in Chadwick and Troupe. Chadwick shot a good deal and gave the visitors the lead before the interval. Afterwards Rowe, who gave good display, the County level, Bain again placing Everton ahead. The last goal was something of a gift for Collins, who had stopped number of good shots, did not, attempt to deal with the half-back's drive from long range. There was not much pace behind the ball, and probably Collins was unsighted, although that did not appear the case viewing the incident from the Press box. However, Everton played good football a muddy ground and were more deserving of the honours than he home team. For Derby, Pumford tried hard at centre-forward without succeeding in scoring and Storer, after long absence on the injured list, showed of his worth without unduly extending himself. But the forward line did not pull well together as a whole. Tootle was out of his place left halfback, and after the interval resumed operation at full back, changing places with Ritchie. Both teams lasted well a keen contest on an exceptionally heavy ground.

DERBY COUNTY RESERVES 1 EVERTON RESERVES 2
March 2, 1925. The Daily Courier.
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 30)
The visitors enhanced their championship prospects by winning this game, played on a quagmire, but there was a element of luck about their winning goal, scored nine minutes from the close. Derby's defence stood appealing for hands against Barton, when Bain went on and scored. Everton's first goal was a gem by Chadwick. Rowe equalising for Derby shortly after the interval. Everton were superior at all points except in goal, where Collins gave a magnificent display for the home side.

CRUSHING BLOW FOR THE REDS
Nottingham Journal, Monday 02 March 1925
VALUABLE POINTS DROPPED AT EVERTON
BLACK OUTLOOK
EVERTON 3 NOTTM. FOREST 1
Another crushing blow fell upon Nottingham Forest in Lancashire.  It was a match which might have made all the difference between safety and relegation, and it the outset it looked as if Forest appreciated the diverse meaning of those two words.  A goal scored by Walker within three minutes cut Everton to the quick; for their position too was precarious.  It was so contrary to the usual order of things that Forest should begin like winners, that 20,000 spectators were not at all certain about Everton’s chances of escape.  Then came a lapse, and in the end Everton, with plenty to spare, won by three goals to one.
FLATTERED TO DECEIVE
By the interval Everton had changed the aspect, but up to then the result was open.  Soon afterwards it was never in doubt.  Almost continuously Everton were a tackling, and it was obvious that Bennett would be compelled to yield, although the real blame was not his.  It is now evident that Forest do not relish football in mud.  After staging a mid-week game Goodison Park had no opportunity to recover from the recent deluge and a bright morning sun did nothing more than dry up pools of water which might have rendered the ground unfit to play.  Apart from the isolation of the corners it was a mud pitch, ankle deep.  Underfoot conditions were by far the worst Forest had been called upon to endure this season.  And so their task was an especial burden.  Mud gave Everton a valuable victory.  They deserved it, because they6 refused to be unnerved either by Forest’s early goal or mud! 
DEFENSIVE WEAKNESSES.
Instead of maintaining the style which brought that early goal, Forest resorted to tactics which for so long have been their undoing.  Instead of those long swinging passes to the wings the inside forwards held the ball close and courted inevitable ruin.  Inspired by Walker, whose pass put Gibson into his stride, the movement from which Forest open the scoring was certainly one of the best of the match.  It was one of those occasions when during a brief spell the flying Gibson was at his best.  Rounding both Rooney and O’Donnell, he ended a sparkling dash with a centre right to the head of Walker, who had run into position, and Harland was left helpless.  Until Everton turned the tables Gibson and Chedgzoy rivalled each other by commendable bursts along the respective wings; but eventually the Forest forwards lapsed into a state of iunefficiency.  Indeed in the second half they7 were completely subdued.  Defensive weaknesses, however, cost the match.  Particularly were they evident on the left flank.  In mitigation of Wallace it must be announced that he had been a victim of influenza during the week, and was perhaps hardly equivalent to the physical strain of so vital a match under such wretched conditions.  Against such a formidable wing as Irvine and Chedgzoy this meant an additional test for Thompson.  In one word Thompson failed. 
MUD,DARKNESS AND MORGAN
His biggest bugbear was Irvine.  Some of the inside-right’s footwork was of dazzling brilliance.  In addition to the fine solo effort which enabled him to equalize, it was Irvine who made the opening for Broad to give Everton the lead.  Irvine was the forager, the schemer, and the real danger among the Everton forwards.  He and Chedgzoy plated all part in their success, for was it not the right wing that again paved the way for Broad to settle the issue?  After the interval fears were entertained that the game might be abandoned owing to the field being enveloped in semi-darkness.  As I watched those silhouettes chasing wildly after the ball, with hardly a trace of real football to be seen, I was forced to the conclusion that the debacle would have been better blacked out altogether!  In this bitter and dismal defeat there was one illuminating factor- Gerald Morgan.  With head and feet his defensive work was wonderful; as effective as that of two others and filled everybody with admiration.  There was certainly no half-back his equal.  Teams; Everton; Harland; McDonald, and O’Donnell; Rooney, McBain (Captain), and Reid; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Broad, Williams, and Weaver.  Forest.- Bennett; Bulling and Thompson; Belton, Morgan, and Wallace; Gibson, Flood, Walker, Morris, and Burton.  Referee; Mr. Ewood (Sheffield).  –H.D.G. 

FADED FORCES
Athletic News - Monday 02 March 1925
EVERTON RESTORED TO FAVOUR AT GOODISON
BROAD’S GOALS
EVERTON 3, NOTTINGHAM FOREST 1
By Harricus
BEARING in mind the fact that the contesting clubs were numbered 20 and 21 in the League chart one did not anticipate a thrilling afternoon at Goodison Park where Nottingham Forest were view, and in the circumstances one was not grievously disappointed with the exhibition provided by the opposing forces.  From the personal point view it was a first half game only, for after the interval the light became so dim that it was impossible, perched, as I was, aloft in the Everton Press box, to judge the finer movements of the game, if any; indeed, it was somewhat difficult to place the whereabouts of the ball at times.  But at Everton had been beaten at home on the previous Wednesday their supporters were quite well satisfied with the game because it ended in favour of the Evertonians by a decisive margin. The score was 3-1 to say nothing of two other goals that did not count-thanks to the one-back game, but really I am not so sure that Everton would have won at all had not the Forest scored within three minutes of the start.  The crowd thereat became a little supercilious in their criticism, and had the effects of the blue-jerseyed men rolling up their sleeves metaphorically and blotting out the opposition.  That first goal was a good one, for Gibson, receiving a pass from Flood, tripped along, beat the full-back and centred right across goal, WALKER dashing up in time to drive the ball into the net.  But Everton could not equalize for another twenty minutes, and then it was due to an admirable display of individualism by IRVINE, who threaded his way past opponent after opponent, before making his shot.  Bennett got his hands to the ball, but he could not prevent it entering the net.  Irvine had a great deal to do with the next point, too, for he dribbled right up to the vicinity of the goal, where he and Bennett collided, and BROAD coming along pushed the ball into the net what time three men lay on the ground.  BROAD was also credite3d with the third goal after ten minutes of the second half by scraping a neat centre by Chedgzoy past Bennett.  In as few words as possible I will simply state that the game was not an exhilarating one, and will leave my readers to imagine the rest.  It is a curious coincidence that the two most prominent figures on the field were two Irishmen who, I presume, could not be spared to assist their country because of the precarious position of their own clubs. 
GALLIANT IRISHMEN
I am referring to Irvine and Morgan- Harland does not come in because he was no tested.  Perhaps most credit must go to Irvine, for he was a match winner.  Of course, we all know his penchant for dribbling for spectacular display only, but on Saturday his command of the ball was turned to the fullest advantage of his side.  He and Chedgzoy composed the best wing on the field, and Irvine, in addition, proved that he can shoot with power and precision.  Broad’s two goals made him the highest League goal-scorer of the side, but his goals were made for him, and I can only say of him that he is a dashing player.  McBain was the best of the half-backs, and the two full-backs were powerful kickers, too much so to my mind.  By the way, Everton played a new half-back, a local, by name Rooney, and he performed satisfactorily in an unostentatious manner.  The other Irishman, Morgan, was the centre-half on the losing side, and he was certainly the most noticeable man on the field.  He played a great uphill game, tackling, heading, and passing in a manner that commanded admiration.  I have seen him to good effect on the wing also, and he is undoubtedly a man of mettle.  Amongst the others Foresters I must not omit to pay tribute to the skilful footwork of Gibson at outside right, but generally speaking, the losers were merely a serious hard-working side without the craft necessary for success.  Everton; Harland; McDonald, O’Donnell; Rooney, McBain (Captain), Reid; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Broad, Williams, and Weaver.  Nottingham Forest; Bennett; Bulling, Thompson; Belton, Morgans, Wallace; Gibson, Flood, Walker; Morris, and Burton.  Referee; F. Wood, Sheffield. 

THE RELIEF AT GOODISON
Liverpool Echo - Monday 02 March 1925
WHERE ONE COUNTS TWO
Bee’s Notes
The victory obtained by Everton counted as two on Saturday –two points and two effects, for it served to push Nottingham Forest into their rightful category, judging them by their standard this season and also last season.  They were very poor even when they had a goal lead, for there was no cohesion in the side, and they played like a doomed side.  Everton won in rather curious manner; they won through Irvine.  I say this advisedly and after careful though, because, while it is plain that an eleven wins a game –and only directors lose it! –the fact of Saturday’s game was pretty patent.  Everton could not have won without Irvine’s brilliant individual bursts and his sinuous runs and striking shots.  He has a peculiar habit of dribbling; it is second nature to him, and there have been times when we have complained of his excesses of dribble, but no one can deny him his honours on Saturday, for his dribbling was well conducted, showed him to be a born footballer, and showed him as a live force where life-in-the-line was wanted. 
NEED FOR IMPROVEMENT
The welcome little stranger that put Everton up two points, for the first time since January 17, was helpful, but it must be conceded that there were still weaknesses in the Everton side.  Weaver did not strike lucky, even though Williams brought into the game a lot of serviceable work, in which he helped defence and attack by his spend and by his wise, discretionary passes.  Broad was always in the right place for the work on hand, and got two goals, but there was a seeming slowness down the middle, which was possibly due to the state of the ground.  Everton have not been fortunate in their centres for a long period –Freeman, Parker, Fazackerley, Stan Davies, Browell, to name a few, have not had long innings.  One thing can be said, Rooney played a grand game for a debut match.  He has height, good ideas, and uses the ball to advantage, keeping it on the ground.  More power to such a boy, who has grown from the A team and is a local.  O’Donnell, like McDonald, played a fiery game, but the new man paid a severe penalty when clever Gibson rounded him and led to the first goal.  O’Donnell has only one fault-I mentioned it in the Cardiff visit- he inclines to delay his punt. 
A WORD FOR McDONALD
There has been one point about this season’s work at Everton that no one can minimize not yet deny.  Jock McDonald has risen to a great height to steady the defence and spirit the forwards into action.  His rallying work bears effect every time I see it; it is infectious, and I was glad to see the crowd on the paddock side gave him a hearty cheer.  He and Rooney kept the Forest left wing well in check, and their work that day was a big factor towards the Forest going down and the Everton side keeping up.  It is a long way to go yet, and Everton cannot afford to slacken their effort.  They are still playing moderately, and the relief of Makeking is an accomplished fact; the relief of Everton is simply the relief of a side that has been stung week after week by misfortune of some sort of other, and has now got its head in front.  May they keep their heads in front is my worst wish. 

EVERTON UNCHANGED
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 04 March 1925
Bee’s Notes
Everton visit Bury on Saturday in a League match, and the team will be the same as against Notts Forest-namely; Harland; McDonald, O’Donnell; Rooney, McBain, Reid; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Broad, Williams, and Weaver. 
Bromborough Pool have Tom Fleetwood ex-Rochdale, Everton and Oldham, in their ranks. 

LACK OF BALANCE?
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 05 March 1925
Bee’s Notes
I am writing to you to behalf of a considerable number of supporters of the Everton Club, who have followed the team for about the last 25 years, and during the past three or four seasons have made it a point to follow the club at numerous away matches (says “Walton”).  We were at the Cardiff match, and after careful consideration have come to the conclusion that the players themselves do not require the services of an outside left in the team.  Weaver did not receive the ball from his colleagues half a dozen times.  Harrison and Troup have been treated just the same in their time, and both these players have been blamed for certain reverses; and the consequence was that Harrison was signed by the P.N.E. Club and Troup is now regarded as the second team man.  Weaver will go the same way unless something is done to alter the style of the players.  We think it is time some drastic changes were made both in the composition of the directorate and the team itself, for it is surely a positive disgrace that a club like the Blues, with the magnificent support which they receive from the public, should be in such a sorry position in the League table. 
THEIR TOMB
The partisanship in local offices often grows into good-humoured effrontery.  I have had shown me the work of certain wags of the New Century Press, who raised a monument to Everton in cardboard, with the flag at half-mast.  This was solemnly presented to an ardent Evertonian, who took it in good part! 
RARE IN PROSPECT
The teams chosen by Scotland’s League to face England at Goodison Park is such that I prospect a crowd of nearly 40,000 spectators at Walton on Saturday week, for this reasons.  We have not seen some of these Scottish players here in the city in recent seasons, and have taken a great liking to their style. 

THE JUNIOR DERBY
Liverpool Echo - Friday 06 March 1925
The junior “Derby” game between the Liverpool and Everton “A” teams is due to be played at Clubmoor to-morrow; kick-off 3.15.  Everton will field from the following; Dolan; Callanan, Hamilton, Grey, Wear, Fairfoull, Harrington, Barker, Lunt, Houghton, Whitlow, and Rankin. 

AT BURY
Liverpool Echo - Friday 06 March 1925
Bee’s Notes
When one goes to Bury one instinctively talks of the fine turf at this ground.  Everton will think it is the finest in the world if they can squeeze two points out of it tomorrow.  Bury, without flourish of trumpets, have been among the best surprise packets the season has offered us, but they have not always been secure at home; and there are faults at full back at times that suggest Everton have a chance of springing a surprise if the side works heartily, well, and each for the other.  After having won against Forest, the directors could hardly make a change, although some faultiness was made evident.  I see Livingstone and Raitt are both fit and well again, and, contrariwise, W. Brown looks like being out of the game for a while.  He has been most unlucky in many ways, but he is only one of a bundle of hospital cases that Everton have suffered in recent months.  These are the sides for the Bury game;- Everton; Harland; Livingstone, Macdonald; Rooney, McBain, Reid; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Broad, Chadwick, Weaver.  Bury; Harrison; Heap, Adamson; Porter, Bradshaw, Turner; Robbie, Stage, Bullock, Bett, Amon. 

MENHAM SIGNS FOR EVERTON.
March 7, 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
Northern Nomads goalkeeper GC Menham, has signed an amateur form for Everton, and will assist the Goodison Park Club whenever his services are not required by the Nomads, who retain first claim on him. Menhan, who played for the North in the recent amateur trial match against the South, is an old boy of Wallasay Grammar School, and before joining the Nomads, he played for the Hightown Club.

FAMOUS OLD-TIMERS.
March 7, 1925. The Liverpool Football Echo.
DIRECTORS WHO HAD VISIONL; A REMINSCENCE OF MR T.E.COATES.
By Victor Hall.
There is a pleasant remembrance among football enthusiasts of today when they survey the good work done for local football by the men who guided the destinies of Everton and Liverpool years ago when both clubs were in their tender youth. Some day we may recall with passing wonder the strange anxieties that witnessed the separate launchings of both clubs. The jealousies, the brickerings, even the bitterness that was engendered on one side, or on both. And yet time is a wonderful healer, and those live yet that, working once in opposite camps, have since come to know one another better, and knowing, have learned with pleasure that earlier estimates of character were misjudged or hastily formed.
A GREAT LEVELLER.
They have learned that the once bitter opponents was only a strong partisan, and that the best and passion of the argument has but hid or dimmed a kindly nature, and the beneath the angry air there beat an honest heart. Sportsmanship is a great leveller of class. If brings together the broadcloth and the corduroy, the clerical collar and the muffler, the ultra Radical and the stroutest of Tories. So may it always be. We would recall some of those giants of sportsmanship who in the part helped to mould the fortunes of both Everton, and Liverpool. Foremost them, at least in point of years, one recalls, the charming personality of the late Mr. A.T.Coates, one of the first directors of the present Everton club, and previously a committeeman of the club before they left Anfield for Goodison Park. Charming is truly the best way to describe the personality of the popular old clubman. His venerable grey beard, his invariable top hat, and a courtley old-world grace that distinguished him in any company, will be at once recall by all who ever came in contact with him. When in good health he never missed a match, and at all times his heart and soul were in the fortunes of the club, and more particularly in the care and comfort of the players themselves. He was never so happy as when among them. In their recreation or in their amusement no member of the board was more welcome than Mr. Coates, and if success came it did not spoil his interest in them. More potent in his influence with them, however, was the kindly way in which, when fortune was fickle, he still stood by “the boys.” He was not a fair-weather friend of the players. He did not desert them, or avoid their company when defeat or ill-fortune came along. Nor did he show pique or coolness with a player who had “gone off” his form. That is the testing time with every player, when be picks out real friends from the sham. No one knows than the player himself when he is having his bad time. He does not-need the jeers of an ill-informed crowd to remind him that he is “of.” He knows it better than they; sometimes, too, he knows why he is “off.” And they do not……Yet they jeer. He may have illness or worry, or any of the hundred things that come to trouble every man who works for his bread, and still must work, but what a difference when one can work without worry or without the constant pull at the heart-strings that mental on bodily worry may bring. That is where Abraham T. Coates won the hearts of most players with whom he came in contact. He had a wonderful depth of sincerity and sympathy in his soul, and if he could not praise at least he did not blame. He understood. In return the players gave him their confidence and their respect. They came to him with their troubles and with their anxieties, and like an old confessor he heard them though to the end, and if their views needed expression at the board meeting, he was the champion to state their case, and in most cases he was an eloquent pleader, and one might add a successful one generally. With his fellow directors, too, Mr. Coates held a warm corner in their esteem. He was so genuinely sincere and earnest in every duty to him that he disarmed criticism. Whether on the ground Committee or in matters of finance, his time and his brilliant intellect and energies were always at the club's disposal. Towards the end of his career, advancing age prevented him making the long and frequent journeys in football matters he had done in earlier years, but to the very end his interest and activeies would have shamed many a younger man. With visiting committees too, he was extremely popular. Extremely fastidious in his own entertainment, his heath requiring constant care, he was always welcome and genial speaker at inner-club gatherings where he readily wit and sparkling humour were invariably the hit of the evening. One little story he used to enjoy telling against himself. After a match one day the team were returning to Liverpool by train, and in the saloon carriage, after the tea baskets had been disposed of, he was illustrating a point in offside position with a number of matches to represent players. Round him were gathered the team and some fellow directors and of course, the pressman. THE ONE SIDE.
From the “offside” illustration. Mr. Coates progressed with his matchsticks to illustrate according to his ideas, the most successful way to carry the ball forward into a good scoring position for any match. Illustrating his points, he moved each of his forwards, and half-backs, one by one, forward on the table of play. “Here you see the centre half passes to the outside-right, who is uncovered, he passes forward and round his man, recovers, and gives to his inside forward; the inside forward instantly swings it over to the outside left, who running up, draws the defence out to him. He is speedy and gets well down to the corner flag then he whips it across where there is his centre and the inside right waiting to score.” “Quite simple you see, according to my plan,” and Mr. Coates puts down his last match. “Wait a bit, Mr., Coates” blurred out one of the players –and he was an international many times over for Scotland –“What the – is the other team doing all this time.” And Mr. Coates had forgotten that!
I was much interested to find your article on my old friend Mr. Ben Kelly. He was one of the most lovable of men, and he was brought into contact with the directors of the Everton Club when he removed from Anfield to Goodison Park, writes Mr. W. R. Clayton. His brother, Richard, was never a member of the board as you state; as a matter of fact, we saw very little of his brother, Richard, but another brother William, was of great assistance to us in planning the stands and hoarding, and was in constant attendance during the time that we put the fixtures on the ground. Mr. Ben Kelly in his department also worked very hard for the club at that time. After being on the board two or three years we had a game, I think an International or an Association Final, fixed for the ground, and certain alterations had to be made, and Kelly Brothers were the only people who could do the work satisfactorily and in the time, and Mr. Ben Kelly, therefore had to resign from the board, by the directors were very glad to re-elected him after the contract which his firm he entered into had been completed.

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 07 March 1925
BY Louis T. Kelly

• Dominy, a dominating forward, had been Southampton’s marksman in chief with four
  bulls” prior to Liverpool’s meet.”

“CHIMMING BELLS’ BOSS UP
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 07 March 1925
Bee’s Letters
Friend “Chimming Bells” writes;-
We learn from your Notes that you have “a pile of correspondence” respecting Everton, their team and their management; and, you comment, “It was ever thus.”  Well, I hardly think it can be possible for any one of your countless friends to hold in higher esteem than I do the spirit that lives within your work for football in general, and that of this city in particular; but if there is in your attitude a feature that challenges my critical faculty it is the tendency you exhibit to discourage adverse criticism when, and because, a team is doing badly.  You have, indeed, been found publishing and extolling a letter, or letters from those mouthing sentiment and lamentations, whilst at the same time not hesitating to castigate those who ventured to express their equally honest views that something better should be forthcoming.  In my humble judgement that is all wrong.  Surely, where there is a large body of people, paying in the mass, large sums of money to an executive in order that a public service may be provided, it is well within the rights of individual members of the paying class to voice their complaints when the service is not even reasonably satisfactory.  If they may not complain in those circumstances when may they do so?  Or is it the view that they should just go on paying their good money and have no right of complaint?  Of course, there is criticism and criticism I regret that much of the adverse kind is very ill-informed; but, provided is honest and inspired by genuine concern for the club’s welfare, it is not altogether fair to deprecate it simply because it is timed to coincide with the team’s succession of defeats and consequent perilous position.  It seems to me that that is precisely the time when plain speaking and vigorous criticism is valuable and, certainly, it is more likely to be useful than any quantity of the “stick to the good old club through thick and thin,” much can ever be.  Everton in the main have made a reasonably good attempt to secure and maintain a staff of players that a recognized authority would expect to secure, at least, average success, or a little more than that.  The trouble with so many football “fans” is that they are less admires of football than hero workshippers; I ask them, in the interest of the game, on the ground, in the office and the workshop, in their letters to yourself, to forget individuals and to think of the team as representing Everton, a great and glorious name in football history, a club with a wonderful record and tradition, an institution of the City of Liverpool, in its way as typical and important as the Landing-stage or St. George’s Hall.
THE ANSWER.
Very interesting, as usual, sir., but it would be a peculiar football world if even the best and worst did not have lean times sometimes!  Everton are suffering just as others have suffered.  Why should they believe or have supporters believe, they can always do well?  They cannot command victories.  My great grievance against the correspondents who write me to “sack the lot” is that they construct nought, and would even desire libels to be published.  They must learn the great blessing of “learning how to take defeat with a smile.”  Had Everton gone on to win the English Cup, these self-same snarlers at the management would have been shouting themselves hoarse and using such flattering terms as “Good old Neily.”  When you win, you are at one with everything, except the losers; people can without complaint call you by your Christian name! When you lose, they call you every name save that having the Christian strain.  It’s a funny world, my masters. 

EVERTON FROM NONE
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 07 March 1925
THEIR FORWARDS’ DISPLAY AT GIGG-LANE
A FULL-BACK CHANGE
F.E.H. GIVES A CRITICAL REVIEW OF THE MATCH
Everton; Harland; Raitt, O’Donnell; Rooney, McBain, Reid; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Broad, Williams, Weaver.  Bury; Harrison; Heap, Adamson; Porter, Bradshaw, Turner; Robbie, Stage, Bullock, Ball, Amos.  Referee.- Mr. D. H. Asson, of West Bromwich. 
When the Everton team arrived in Bury a hurricane storm of wind sprang up, and many spectators must have been drenched on their way to Gigg-lane. Nevertheless, the gate was a good one, there being 12,000 present when play began on a slippery turf.  Everton got off the mark in good style, for in the first minute McBain put the leather forward to Broad, who had a glorious opening but he put wide. The strong wind and the repelling showers were all against good play, and though the pace was fast there were few of the finer points of the game observable.
NETTED, BUT OFFSIDE. 
Williams on one occasion got past the home defence in speedy fashion, but he concluded with a rather weak shot. So far the Evertonians were enjoying all the best of the play, and after Broad had failed to profit by a chance, owing to a mistake on the part of Heap, Williams netted, but he was obviously offside and the point was promptly disallowed.  Everton still persisted in their attack, and the Bury goalkeeper was penalized for carrying the ball. The visitors tried hard to turn this to account by a series of short passes in front of goal, and there was a claim for hands and this was disallowed.  Bury them took up the running, and were busy on both wings, but their final efforts were lacking in accuracy. 
BULLOCK FOR BURY. 
Once Bradshaw crossed neatly to Bullock, but the latter shot faultily. A few minutes later, however, he made ample amends by taking an exchange from Robbie, netting at close range. Everton replied with a spirited attack on the Bury goal, and McBain sent in a wonderful long, dropping drive, which the custodian scooped net of the net at the cost of a corner.  It was a fine attempt on the part of the Everton centre half, and an equally clever save by Harrison. Weaver attempted to make ground on his own account, but he was baulked by Heap, and at the other end Bury were very nippy in their movements, but rather unfinished in their final attempts on Harland's charge.  Then both Robbie and Stage shot wide when each of them might have found the target.  Just before the interval Wearer again got through and put the ball to Broad, but the centre forward missed amagnificent chance of equalizing. A minute afterwards Lottie missed two chances. 
Half-time.—Bury 1 Everton 0
PICK OP THE DEFENCE. 
Three bad not been very much to choose between the teams in the first period, though Bury were in the ascendency before the change of end.  The Everton half-backs had played excellently, and the work of O’Donnell was very favorably commented upon.  There were about 15,000 people present when the second half entered upon.  Bury were busy on both wings, but the rain-soaked turf made for miscalculation, and many promising movements came to nothing through the players slipping in the mud. A very pretty bit of work by the home left wing won loud cheers from the crowd, but these faded away when Raitt effected a brilliant clearance. Bury continued to keep up the pressure, and after some exciting skirmishes Bradshaw put the leather yards wide of the mark.  In the later stages of the game the going was exceptionally heavy, and though a lively pace was maintained play was rather of a haphazard character.  After twenty minutes’ play a terrific rainstorm burst over the ground, blinding players and spectators alike.  It was obvious that play could not go on, and the referee stopped the game, apparently with the intention of resuming after the storm had ceased.  After an absence of three minutes the players returned, and the match was continued.
ROONEY CARRIED OFF
Just before the final Rooney was hurt and carried off the field.  Final; Bury 1, Everton 0

EVERTON RES V SHEFF UNITED RES
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 07 March 1925
This fixture was played before a record attendance.  In the first minute, the United pressed, Livingstone, in skying the ball, placed the home goal in jeopardy, the Everton back making a wonderful recovery, and relieving the situation.  Troup and Forbes on the extreme wings, were in magnificent form and made many raids on the visitors goal. 
A GOAL FOR COCK
Jones the home goalkeeper, was rather fortunate in keeping his goal intact when Hoyland was only a foot wide with the keeper well beaten.  The first goal, however, came to Everton, when Forbes, in making a drive for a goal, landed the ball at the feet of Cock, who gave the keeper no chance. 
A BIG LEAD
Two further goals came to Everton in quick succession, Chadwick scoring the second and Cock the third.  With six minutes from the interval Everton were pressing hard, the score standing at 3-0 for Everton. 

BURY 1 EVERTON 0
March 9, 1925. The Daily Courier.
EVERTON FORWARD' FAIL AT BURY.
PLAY STOPPED BY RAIN STORM.
By. McN.
The conditions at Gigg-lane were all against accurate football, but Bury adapted themselves better than Everton to the slippery state of the ground and they won by the only goal. Driving rain of great force came on as spectators were making their way to the ground, and the playing space was quickly transformed into a skating ring. In the second half a hail and rainstorm descended with such fury, that the referee stopped play, and led the players off the field for three minutes. The game was resumed, and the match concluded. Bury scored in the first half, when a centre from Robbie touched O'Donnell and placed Bullocl on side. The centre had no difficulty in scoring.
DISPUTCHED POINTS.
Before this Williams netted from a ball which came to him off Harrison as the goalkeeper and Weaver lay on the ground. Everton are still wondering why the referee did not allow the point. The reason for the decision against the goal was not clear, but the players' appeal was not entertained. Robbie also netted what the Bury men though was a good goal, but he, too, was given offside. Bury undoubtedly had an advantage in the forward line, where Bullock and Robbie were outstanding figures. Bradshaw at centre-half revelled in the going and gave a wonderful display of constructive tactics, his placing tackling and shooting being the feature of the game. The backs also played well. Everton lacked cohesive methods, the forwards being a line of units almost devoid of combined effort. Irvine was the best of the line, but the Irishman was inclined to hold the ball too long. These tactics did not pay on such a day. Little or no fault could be found with the rest of the team.
STRONG HALVES.
The halves were strong and resourceful, all three playing with skill and tacts. McBain was at his best, adding to his accustomed skill a valuable asset in driving for goal, but he had no luck. Rooney after playing splendidly had the misfortune to be injured severely in the last minute, when he was carried off the field. He sustained a badly bruised shoulder and an injury to the kneecap. He will not be able to play for some time. McDonald took ill with the flu on Friday, and his place was taken by Raitt. The Scot gave a sound display while O'Donnell's work roused the admiration of the home spectators. The Darlington lad had a fast wing to face, but he stood up to them in great style, his interventions being splendidly timed and his kicking strong and of good length. Harland gave a convincing display in goal; the Irishman saving many fine shots. Everton lost because the forwards failed to finish when they had chances early in the game. Teams : - Bury: - Harrison, goal, Heap, and Adamson, backs, Porter, Bradshaw, and Turner half-backs, Robbie, Stage, Bullock, Ball, and Amos, forwards. Everton: - Harland, goal, Raitt, and O'Donnell, backs, Rooney, McBain (captain), and Reid, half-backs, Chedgzoy, Irvine, Broad, Williams, and Weaver, forwards. Referee DH. Asson.

EVERTON RESERVES 4 SHEFFIELD UNITED RESERVES 0
February 9, 1925. The Daily Courier.
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 31)
Everton enhanced their championship prospects by a fine win over Sheffield. The visitors were no match for the strong team fielded by the Blues, who after obtaining a good lead, toyed their opponents. The Sheffield defence held out for half an hour, but then Cock diverted a pass from Forbes into the net. Chadwick quickly added a second goal, and just before the interval Cock registered a third with a fast drive, which passed over Robinson's head into the net. Late on in the second half Cock got through again, and scored with a shot which might have been saved. Sheffield were seldom dangerous, but might have been awarded a penalty for an offensive which the referee decided was outside the area. Cock gave one of his best displays, being ever ready for an individual run while keeping his wings going in good style. Chadwick and Troup did much good work, but Wall shot badly. All the halves did well, with Bain the outstanding figure.

LEAGUE CLASH
Athletic News –Monday, March 9, 1925
Mr. Tom McIntosh has arrangements well in hand for the Football League v. Scottish League match at Goodison Park next Saturday, kick-off at 3 o’clock.  There has been a steady flow of application for seats, of which 8,000 can be booked at 5s and 3s., while there are 5,000 unreserved seats at 2s and 2s 4d.  Applications for Press tickets to be made direct to the Everton Football Club. 
Everton have signed on an amateur form Charles Gordon Menham, the Northern Nomads goalkeeper. 

JUST A GOAL
Athletic News- Monday, 9 March 1925
BURY’S MASTERY ON STORM-SWEPT GROUND
BURY 1, EVERTON 0
By Icarus
The men of Bury and Everton are to be commended upon serving up such entertaining fare when the conditions were as bad as they could have been.  Just before the start there was a deluge, and although there were times when the sun shone rain fell at intervals.  Indeed, so furious, it relief, was one storm twenty minutes after half-time that the referee sent the player to the dressing-room, play being resumed about four minutes later.  Everton had the wind and rain at their backs at the start, and they set about their task as if they meant to make full use of their advantage.  But- how often has this been written of Everton- the visitors missed chances, and especially one which fell to Broad with barely two minutes gone.  McBain drove the ball down the field, the centre-forward pounced upon it, and made a characteristic burst between the Bury backs, only to finish by shooting wide.  Everton did get the ball into the net, through Williams, but the player was rightly adjudged offs-side.  Then, after 19 minutes, Bury struck the decisive blow, and it was Robbie who forced the opening. In a thrilling run he beat Reid and O’Donnell and when his cross was merely diverted to the left by Raitt, it appeared, BULLOCK took the opportunity and shot the ball past Harland.
FORWARDS SUBDUED
Up to the interval Everton, though they had lost their grip on affairs, often were as dangerous as their opponents, but there was to be no recovery, and in the second half they faded out as an attacking force.  Following one of their raids, however, there did seem to be grounds for Everton’s appeal for a penalty kick when Broad came to earth.  But Bury went nearer to adding to their lead than did their opponents to equalizing.  Robbie found the net after Ball had headed in from Amos’ corner kick, But again the off-side law had been infringed, but Bury had other openings, which they ignored.  Of course, mistakes were bound to happen on such a day, but it must be said that Robbie often spoiled splendid approach work by delaying his shot or centre.  Not that he was much more blameworthy than his colleagues, for Stage’s schemes sometimes went awry, and Ball and Amos must be accounted the best forwards because of their strength in the second half.  At half-back Bradshaw stood out, not only because of his help in attack, but for his intuition in positioning himself and his manner of dispossessing a foe, which often amounted to audacity.  On the wings Porter and Turner worked hard. The backs covered Harrison well, and the goalkeeper answered all calls confidently, though he was once penalized for carrying, Harland, in the Everton goal, distinguished himself, especially by making one save from Amos, and he, too, had strong support.  Though both Raitt and O’Donnell were more easily beaten in the second half, they offered a valiant resistance, and a feature of the play before the interval was the tackling and kicking of the tenacious and intrepid recruit from Darlington.  McBain was not such a power as Bradshaw in covering goal, but he kept the game open and, like his henchmen, tackled strongly.  Rooney, the young Liverpool man, had played his part manfully when, a minute from the end, he was carried off, having sustained a bruised shoulder and knee.  The play of the Everton wing forwards was not convincing, and Irvine and Williams did the best work.  Bury.- Harrison; Heap, Adamson; Porter, Bradshaw, Turner; Robbie, Stage, Bullock, Ball and Amos.  Everton.- Harland; Raitt, O’Donnell; Rooney, McBain, Reid; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Broad, Williams, and Weaver.  Referee; Mr. D.H. Asson, West Bromwich.

EVERTON’S ONE-NESS
Liverpool Echo - Monday 09 March 1925
Everton have been losing with aggravating regularity by 1’s.  Maybe their turn for persistent results one-up will come in due course.  It is much overdue.
F.E.H writes;-
There is not very much that can be profitably said about Everton’s meeting with Bury ay Gigg-Lane on Saturday.  The weather conditions were simply abominable, and the famous turf of this enclosure, said to be the best in the country, was reduced to a water-logged mud heap.  Everton began in the happiest fashion, and I thought that Broad would find himself in his element.  He certainly led off in good style, but subsequently faded away, and ultimately the whole forward line quite failed to fulfill expectations.  Several of the decisions of the referee were open to question, especially in the second half, and, in my humble judgement, Everton ought to have at least collared one point.  I think Williams was really offside when he netted, but this was counter-balanced by a similar ruling against Robbie later on in the contest.  The Everton halves played good football, and everybody will be glad to know that Rooney, though badly bruised, is not seriously damaged.  The defence was good throughout, in spite of Bullock’s goal, and O’Donnell enhanced his reputation as a clever full-back who may attain high honours.  But the outstanding figure on the field was Bradshaw, the Bury centre-half. 

THEY ALSO SERVE
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 10 March 1925
Bee’s Notes
Everton club asks that shareholders and stewards willing to act on Saturday at the Goodison ground for the Inter-League game will meet at Goodison Park offices, tomorrow at 7 p.m. 

J. COCK GOES TO PLYMOUTH
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 11 March 1925
FORBES FOLLOWS ON
“Echo” Copyright
Jack Cock, of Everton, has been transferred to Plymouth Argyle, and his transfer was followed by that of Forbes, another Everton centre, who has lately played at outside left or right.  Cock came to Everton from Chelsea in January, 1923, and his first game was against Stoke.  He was wanted by Arsenal some weeks ago, and they eventually took his brother Donald from Notts County.  Cock goes near to his home, as he was originally from Cornwall.  He is one of the most popular men in the game, being a perfectly clean player and an artist on and off the field.  He is well known in the theatrical world through his music-hall and cinema appearances.  He has a fine voice, and knows how to use it. 

COCK AND FORBES TO PLYMOUTH
March 12 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
The Everton Club yesterday transferred Cock and Forbes two of their forwards to Plymouth Arygle and they are to play on Saturday against Watford in the Southern section Third Division match. Cock who signed on for Everton on January 19, 1923, and scored a goal on the following day in the League match against Stoke City. He was at one time regarded as the leading centre-forward of his day, this was in 1919-20 season, when he was with Chelsea having been transferred to the London Club by Huddersfield Town. He scored nine goals for the Yorkshire club that season, and scorer 21 for Chelsea in twenty-five League matches. He played in the victory International games against Ireland and Scotland, while he was also in the English League team against the Scottish League. In his spell with Everton, Cock scored nine goals in fifteen matches and last season obtained sixteen goals, but this season he has got only five goals and thirteen with the reserves. Forbes was secured by Everton from Hearts of Midlothians Club of the 1921-22 season, and was originally a centre-forward, but is rather on the small side for that position. He played in ten league games, for Everton in 1922-23 season. He has played well at outside left for the reserves team this season, but in recent games has had to give way to Troup.

INTERNATIONAL FOR ARGYLE.
Western Morning News - Thursday 12 March 1925
PLAYERS FOR PLYMOUTH CLUB.
VALUABLE FORWARDS.
For some weeks past the Plymouth Argyle manager  (My. Robert Jack) has been searching for fresh talent, and yesterday negotiations with Everton were completed for the transfer Jack Cock (centre forward) and S. J. 'Forbes (outside right). Cock is one of the most prominent footballers in the country. Prior to going to he played for Chelsea and Huddersfield, and it will recalled he led the Chelsea attack in the Cup tie at Home Park in February, 1921. In 1920 was England's centre forward v. Scotland and Ireland, while he also played the Victory international match against Wales and for the Football League against the Scottish League.
COCK CORNISHMAN.
In his day Cock one of the most dangerous forwards in the country, dashing type, he loves individual ' effort, and is clever as well as thrustful.  Cock comes near to his home, as he was originally from Cornwall, being born at Hayle.  He is one of the most popular men in the game, being a perfectly clean player and an artist on and off the field. He is well known in the theatrical world, has a fine voice, and knows how to use it:
S. J- Forbes is young player and said to be very speedy. He is at home on either wing, and can also play at inside forward. He figured at outside right for Everton last Saturday. He has been with Everton three seasons, and played for Heart Midlothian at the same time as Bob Preston likeable man, Forbes is good player into the bargain.
A GREAT  FOOTBALLER.
Our London Correspondent writes:—Jock Cock, who  just, been transferred to Plymouth Argyle, completes long odyssey by returning "with all his honours heaped I upon him his native West. He is finest footballer Cornwall has far produced, Jack Cock came very near Being the greatest centre forward in the history of the game, but his form suddenly and unaccountably left him at the height his career, though he is still one England's best players he has recapured that touch of genius which once placed him in class by himself. I remember him few years ago whten the wizard Stamford Bridge all London idolized him.- A Cock goal was then a weekly feature the life the Metropolis, and when, sometimes happened, Jack failed to deliver the goods, the fact was reflected 'on the faces of the -fans for time  remainder of the day. He has never been really happy since he left Chelsea, but be will regain all his old magic before very long in his own West Countree.

FAZACKERLEY & THE WOLVES. EX-CITY PLAYER RECEIVES NOTICE FROM HIS CLUB.
Hull Daily Mail - Friday 13 March 1925
The Wolverhampton Wanderers directors have given Stanley Fazackerley 14 days’ notice to terminate his agreement with the club.  The reasons for the taking of such a drastic step have not been made public, but it is known that the relations existing between directors and Fazackerlev' have been somewhat strained of late. Some time ago he wa placed on tbe transfer list and then withdrawn.  Fazackerley joined  Wolverhampton 1922 from Everton. Previously was with Sheffield United, Hull City, and Preston North End. 

EVERTON SIGN ANOTHER LEFT WINGER
Lancashire Evening Post - Friday 13 March 1925
Everton yesterday secured the transfer of Fred Kennedy, inside left of Manchester United at a fee which is said to be one of the biggest ever paid for a young player.  Kennedy was secured by the United in 1923 from Rossendale United as an outside left, but long before that he had been recommended to Preston North End.  Kennedy, who was born at Bury, is one of the smallest players in fist-class football, as he stands 5ft 6 half inches, but he is plucky, speedy and uncommonly clever with the ball.

FRED KENNEDY SIGN ON.
March 13 1925. The Liverpool Daily post and Mercury.
The Everton directors yesterday signed on a new forward in Fred Kennedy of Manchester United. Kennedy who is twenty-one years of age, and stands 5ft 6ins, is an inside left and was secured by the Old Trafford club from Rochdale.

LATEST EVERTON TRANSFER
Hull Daily Mail - Friday 13 March 1925
F. KENNEDY FROM MANCHESTER UNITED TO THE MERSEYSIDE
Hard upon the departures of two Everton players for Plymouth comes the news of an acquisition by the Merseyside club in the person of Fred Pickering, a most promising left wing forward from Manchester United, at a fee, it is said which probably constitutes a record for so young a player. 

EVERTON’S MENHAM
Liverpool Echo - Friday 13 March 1925
Bee’s Notes
“Waven” writes;- A month or two back you were good enough to publish a line from me in which I suggested that Everton would be well advised to sign on Menham, of Nomads, as an amateur to keep goal for them.  It is very gratifying to see that this has now become an accomplished fact.  Like your valued, but to infrequently, correspondent “Chimming Bells,” I am far from supposing that directors of our senior clubs take much notice of suggestions commenting from your multitudinous correspondents, and I do not for a moment think that my note to you had anything at all to do with this signing.  Nevertheless, the news is good, and it is earnestly to be hoped that Menham will not make fitful appearances in Everton A or reserve, but will be given a League run at the earliest possible opportunity.  I venture to say that he will not easily be displaced.  Everton’s mistake has been that they did not sign Menham last August instead of this March. 

EVERTON PLACE SEVEN ON TRANSFER LIST.
March 14 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
There is no official conformation of a report that Everton are willing to transfer seven of their players, the seven players concerned are said to be Chadwick, Kendall, Raitt, Wall, Williams, Caddick, and Glover.

EVERTON –WHATS WRONG?
March 14, 1925. The Liverpool Football Echo.
CHARLIE SUTCLIFF TAKES A HAND IN THE WORLDWIDE DISSUSSION; TEAM SPIRIT MISSING?
What strange things do happen in football. Since the commencement of the season. I have kept hearing of the delightful football played by the Everton team, yet I could never make it pan out with the results. Then, with a team to pick last Monday, and anxious if possible to select a team to beat our friends of the Scottish league. I forsook the Cup-tie at Blackburn and went to Bury to see the League game. Granted the ground, ideal half an hour before the kick off, was ruined by brief blustering showers of heavy rain mingled with sleet, and the lot of the players was made more difficult and unenviable by cold biting breezes. So much, by way of apology, for the players, which may be regarded as taking the rough edge of my criticism. The goalkeeper was not to blame, the backs were not at fault, but with the rest of the team there was much cause for criticism. It was essentially a day for the outside wingmen, who had the best of the field, to be given the fullest opportunity; yet the ball almost continuously kept in the centre, with the inside men trying to dribble or worm their way, though with an occasional pass to a player with no better opportunity. Neither Chedgzoy nor Weaver had much opportunity, and I could not understand why the Everton team selected the middle of the field as their battleground. The swinging-passes to the wingmen were few and far between, and when they were attempted the ball had often too much pace, and went into touch. Everton have much cause for satisfaction that Notts Forest and Preston North End are relieving them from undue anxiety. Now what is the secret of Everton's failure? The team spirit seemed to be lacking. It was a case of go-as-you-please, and it seemed to me a heart talk between directors and players is the first essential. I have not seen a worse team carrying the Everton Club colours for years, and a team that should be of almost international strength is palpably outclassed. Far be it from me to suggest that the players are not trying but there is a cause for such palpable failure and it should be ascertained and eradicated. The play suggested dissatisfaction somewhere. I know it exists in the minds of the directors and supporters but does it not exist elsewhere? The position is serious and calls for immediate consideration. Yes, I went to try and find an inter-League player, but to be brutally frank not one could I find in the Everton team who came anywhere near satisfying me.

FAMOUS OLD-TIMERS.
March 14 1925. The Liverpool Football Echo
MR. GEORGE MAHON –THE “WINNING” PERSONALITY WHO WON AND KEPT POPULURITY.
By Victor Hall.
When Everton hazarded their future and made the famous trek from Anfield to Goodison Park, there was one among the leaders who was destined to leave a revered name in local football history. Mr. George Mahon had been a leading protagonist in the cause of those who advocated a change from the old ground, and when it came to a cold discussion of ways and means, and cool heads were wanted, he came into prominence and eventually was of powerful influence in the fortunes of the old club. He held, and had always held in a remarkable degree the fullest confidence and respect of his fellow committeemen, and the vast majority of the club “members.” Those were the days when members were those who paid an annual subscription to the club and received in return an advantage in having tickets admitting them to the “members” stands. He possessed in addition, the fullest confidence and respect of the players, and more important still, his name and professional status in business circles in Liverpool stood for everything that was reputable and honourable.
GOODISON OPENED.
Under his leadership therefore, and guided by his wise counsel, the opening of Goodison Park was fortunate in every respect. The club started with a directorate of remarkably sound business experience and good commercial repute; the players had every confidence in the leaders under whom they were to serve. More important still, the names of the eminent gentleman who were chosen as the first directors of the Limited company, into which the old company had been formed, were the most eminent that could have been chosen if all Liverpool had been sifted. Public confidence was assured; 290 odd-0f the old “members” became shareholders in the new company and George Mahon was nominated as first chairman. And right nobly his public career in football then, and later, warranted the choice. With the thorny moves and counter moves of those early negotiations history has now little interest, but no record of local football progress can ignore the influence of Mr. Mahon's personality, in those testing days in the club's history. Those who know Mr. Mahon most intimately are testable to speak of the singular charm of his personality and the sweetness of a disposition that he brought into his daily lift at all times. It is in connection with his association with football, and the Everton club, that were are here dealing though none the less was the estimation of his personality held in the business and financial coracles in which he moved as a professional accountant in the city. He was blessed with an unerring instinct that led him at once to the kernel of any problem whether financial or personal. He had a marked degree a singular perception that guided him to the correct assay whether of men or matters, that not many people possess. With Mr. Mahon it was almost a sense, rarely if ever at fault. Once the problem exposed, he had a clarity of judgement or discernment, call it what you will that with the problem propounded a remedy and again whether speaking of football or finance, rarely was his judgement found faulty. The influence of his personality upon those with whom he came in contact was most remarked, whether it be ascribed to the sweetness of his disposition, his cheery optimism, his own transparent honesty, or a blending of all these faculties, it would be hard to say. But the effect was always there. The problem became no longer a problem once it was subjected to the keen dissection of the subtle mind. With the co-directors and shareholders his was a name to conjure with. At times there were keen rivalries that threatened to provoke at the club's annual meeting angry passions. Rival forces, contending for mastery came prepared to those May meetings to put their forces in array. Presiding, there would be that slender well-known figure, slightly tilted head, the blue eye and boyish bearded face, with that well remembered bating yet incisive speech in which later resolution gleamed below the tentative, halting phrase. How many of these meetings that were going to be so noisy ended mildly with the music as of cooling doves, and the protagonists of an hour ago going home arm in arm? Such was the personality of George Mahon, and that expressed one side of his remarkable personality, there were other equally alluring. When hospitality was dispensed by the Everton club to distinguished rules and legislators no happier man could be found than the chairman, to voice the hospitably of the club and the city generally, to the honoured guests. His speeches were crisp, witty, full of a wishful humour, and yet brimming over with a blending of sound sense and real hospitality. Most valued of all, too, they were brief and to the point. There was nothing wordy or circuitous about either the man of methods. Straight “as a die” himself he expected the same measures of simple honesty from those with whom he came to contact. One of his hobbies was the Theatrical Football game, which in those days was an annual event in which both football clubs took a prominent interest on behalf of local hospitals and charities. The afforded in little relaxation from the stern and serious work of football administration and commanded the esteem –in those days –of the directors of both local clubs. Mr. Mahon was usually elected as chairman and had associated with him the leading representatives of sport and theatrical industry in the city. The success of these unusual event continued for a number of years, with considerable benefit, to the hospitals and charities concerned until in later years experience indicated certain drawbacks, when the clubs decided to adopt other means of benefiting the charitable objects rather than the turmoil and upset to their grounds, these galas occasioned. The practice matches in aid of charities in recent years has well compensated them for the change.
THE RIOT.
The work and personality of Mr. Mahon was appreciated by the Gala Committee on the termination of Mr. Mahon's period of office. There was but one occasion in Mr. Mahon's career with Everton when the magic of his speech fell on deaf ears. It was the occasion of what has sometimes been described as “the riot at Goodison Park.” An unruly number of people had taken from entry of the ground, when the gates where thrown open on the abandonment of a certain match –they had clustered round the official demanding” their money back.” Most of them had paid nothing, but got in when the gates were thrown open. Mr. Mahon addressed them from the balcony of the club pavilion, offering them free tickets for the replayed match, if they would wait their distribute. His voice did not carry very far over their angry cries and it was only when they commenced to pull down the palisades, and shatter the windows that the police held in reserve, were let loose to deal with the disturbance which they did accordingly with promptitude and dispatch. That is the only time George Mahon ever spoke ineffectually of an Everton meeting. But behind him, on his early death, he left a fragrant memory and a happy incentive to those who, loving sport work solely for love, without fear of favour, and who seek no other reward.

EVERTON ANNOYED
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 14 March 1925
“Bee” learns that Everton are very annoyed that the names of the Everton players on offer have been made public.  The notice sent out was a private and confidential one was marked to that effect.  We, for our part, knew the names, but refused to publish them until we found that they had been made public property in another channel.  We understand that Everton have to-day been to Sunderland to watch their clever forward Marshall.  It is patent that Everton are having a thorough raid on the well-known good young men of the game. 
Everton, pursuing their determination to clear out the old and bring in the new, have carried their decision a step further by signing Tom Millington, who has been at Oswestry and Wrexham.  He is a young right who was wanted by Manchester United and West Ham; in fact, if Everton had not clinched the deal last night West Ham would have got the boy, who is full of promise and was loaned by Wrexham to Oswestry.
MORE COMING
This is only one of a number of moves, two of which are extremely important, and concentrate on defence improvements.  Everton were North today, according to our wires, but apart from his being a full back, the messages do not indicate the name of the player. 

INTERNATION AT GOODISON.
March 16, 1925. The Daily Courier.
The English League beat the Scottish League at Goodison Park, on Saturday by four goals to 3, and an brilliant exposition of football rewarded the 40,000 spectators.

BLACKPOOL RESERVES 2 EVERTON RESERVES 1
March 16, 1925. The Daily Courier.
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 32)
Everton Reserves surprised everyone by losing by the odd goal of three at Blackpool where before 3,000 spectators on a soft ground, they had more of the game. The visitors executed some clever movements in the field, but did not finish well. Williams who scored their goal, was the best marksman, and Weaver made some sparkling dribbles. The Blackpool forwards frequently got the better of the Everton halves, and with a little luck Tremelling who scored twice, would have completed the hat-trick.

PRESCOT 1 EVERTON “A” 3
March 16, 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
LIVERPOOL COUNTY COMBINATION.
At Prescot. Everton obtained the lead after five minutes, the ball glancing off Barton from a clearance by Clarke. Play progressed on even lines during the first half. Foulkes and Rawlins, the goalkeepers, making capital saves. Harrington, from a penalty scored Everton's second goal, and close on the interval Booth scored for the home side. Prescot had innumerable chances in the second half, but their forwards were poor many scoring opportunities being missed. Lunt scored the visitors' third goal.

EVERTON’S CASE
Liverpool Echo - Monday 16 March 1925
Bee’s Notes
Nor have Everton finished their labours.  They went out holdly at the week-end for a number of big deals.  At the time I write, Saturday night, nothing has been sent through the wires, but I think we can take it as certain that Everton, by their studied policy of re-creating the team, will make some bold moves.  People are asking why they don’t get boys in the locality, such as Dixie Dean. Well, many a club is hanging up its hat to Tranmere, and I think that the time is ripe for the transfer of the boy.  Price is everything, and Tranmere won’t part with such a money-producer for a mere song.  He ought not to go far from our doors, seeing that he is to all intents and purposes a local.  He is, to my mind, the most promising centre forward I have seen for years.  That does not mean that I would be content to pay a foolish price.  He might get hurt or go “back.” Who knows?  Cresswell whom Sunderland and Middlesbrough fixed up weeks ago, found that the Middlesbrough air might not suit him, or the deal, which was “through” fell to the ground.  He has told me he will not stay at Sunderland.  Where will be book for next season? I wonder? 

W.D WILLIAMS
Hull Daily Mail - Tuesday 17 March 1925
W. D. Williams, the Everton inside-left, has been transferred to Blackpool. He also is a versatile forward, who joined Everton from Lancashire Combination circles.

WILLIAMS OF EVERTON SIGNED ON
Lancashire Evening Post - Tuesday 17 March 1925
Yesterday, the last day on which players could move to or from clubs in danger or those likely to gain an honour.  Blackpool provided a football sensation by transfeering one inside left and signing on another.  In the afternoon, as fist mentioned in the "Lancashire Daily Post" the club secured W.D Williams, one of the seven players Everton placed on the transfer listlast week, and at 6-30 last night, as announced in our Blackpool editions a few minutes afterwards, Matthew Barrass was transferred to the Wednesday. 
W.D Williams, who stands 5ft 7 and half ins, and weighs 11st., played an exceptionally good game for Everton reserves at Bloomfield-road, on Saturday.  He joined the Libverpool club from Darwen -he is a native of Blackburn -two seasons ago and was regularly in the First divsion side until the advent of Chadwick, who last season was the leading scorer in the Division.  Since August Williams has obtained 23 goals for Everton Reserves, and one for the senior side, in which he has played nine games.  He is a useful footballer and possesses the speed of which his new club stands badly in need.  Amongst the other teams which sought him was the Wednesday and this competition rather added to his transfer fee, which, however, was not by any means high. 

WILLIAMS FOR BLACKPOOL.
March 17 1925. The Liverpool Echo.
Williams, of Everton, has gone to Blackpool. Cardiff took an interest in his penmanship but did not persevere with the chance. Williams is an inside left and a virile type of forward who has not been altogether lucky in the last season or so. He got a very hurtful injury at Chelsea's ground two years ago and was a long time getting over this blow. When he came back he was slow to show his former form, but in later days he had come near to his own style, which included a sharp shot and a swift run through a defense. Tautly built he can take and give a charge and he should suit the Blackpool game. He was signed from Darwen by Everton, and in the past few months Middlesbrough have made inquires for his transfer without avail.

BIRKENEAD’S ANNOYANCE OVER DEAN’S TRANSFER
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 17 March 1925
It appears that a great deal of exasperation has been caused among the followers of Tranmere Rovers about the transfer of Dean to Everton (referred to in “bee” notes).  Letters have been received by the club, in addition to telephone messages, to the effect that the transfer was unnecessary, and threatening to boycott the club in their future games.  Officials of the club, however, point out that they consider they have done the right thing in transferring Dean, and it was not their place to stand in Dean’s light.  There was always the chance of his being “crocked,” which diminish his value to both himself and the Rovers. 

EVERTON'S BIG NOISE SIGNING; WHY DEAN HAS DONE WELL.
March 18, 1925. The Liverpool Echo
By “Bee's.”
It is impossible on the score of time and money to write to every Everton spectator a very necessary postcard on a very important point. So I will print the postcard here and let the spectator's disgest it at his leisure. The “Echo” Hive, march 17 1925.
Dear spectator –Pardon my intrusion, but you may have heard per 6L, or through the columns of the “Daily Post” that Dixie Dean has been transferred by Tranmere Rovers to Everton. It is a world-making move; it is just the movement of a local boy from Prenton to Goodison Park. The boy has good chances of doing well out of football, but in view of the way another young boy was spoiled at Goodison Park I though I would write you to ask that the boy shall not be spoiled by sticky adulation. At Tranmere there has been too much of Dixie-this and Dixie that; if it continues the boy –he is but eighteen years old –may easily lose his balance and his football form. He is a very human being. Do not imagine that I am intruding or that I am not going to take a firm hold on my own writing about the boy. I promise you I will; but it is the crowd that has the spoiling of the boy. Do be normal –and let him be likewise –K.R.'s. Sincerely yours Bees.
THE CLUBS THAT SOUGHT HIM.
Never has a boy been so seriously sought as Dean. He had the making of a footballer, he had the shape of a player, the height, weight, temperament, and the latent skill. Every scout who came to see him play asked my verdict and each of them said “A real good footballer in the making.” It is not what he does but the way he does that opens out the prospects for future years. That was the reason they were so keen on his transfer. He is a very good boy off the field as well as on, being rational and reasonable, and it is good to know that Mr. Secretary Cooke took him in hand early on, and the boy was thus able to make use of his wages, rather than live up to fabulous heights, and then he brought to earth so soon as his football career was inclined by injury or what not. Manchester United, per Mr. Dale, Villa, Birmingham, Albion, through Dan Nurse, director and ex-player Huddersfield though the canny manager and good friend Mr. Herbert Chapman, also an explayer and a host of other members got busy pulling the strings and working the wires. There was so many wires that one imagined they would make a good marionette show! Sometimes like that we saw the Empire last week when old-fashioned “penny-gaff” entertainment was burlesqued.
THE COST
It is probably the heaviest transfer for that has ever been paid for a mere boy.  It is impossible to state the figure with any degree of accuracy, but we can state definitely that Tranmere were asking 2,500 pounds and a gift of other players from the club that obtained his signature.  Whether Everton paid that is another matter- it is highly improbable- but that was Tranmere’s original claim for their treasure.  Dean is a big-built boy, very much like McLuckie, the one-time Bury and Villa centre forward, with this saving grace-that whereas McLuckie had a poor pair of feet, Dean is not so troubled.  The pair, however, are very much alike in football style, in shot, and in height and weight.  Dean has been well coached by Sayer, the Irish forward, who looked after his interests and coached him during the games, as well as off the field.  He is a natural footballer, with a stout heart, a willing pair of feet and a constitution that will stand him in good stead.  He has not appeared in all the matches this season through injury and so on, but he scored 29 goals, and he seems to have “more in his locker.”  He played for Birkenhead schoolboys as recently as 1920-21, so that it will be seen his rise to seniority has been electric.  A typical picture of Dean in action is given above. 
EVERTON’S POLICY
It is as plain as the daylight of to-day that Everton are determined to sweep away the traditions of a year ago and aim at young men with a push and go that has been missing from some of the ranks of the side.  Everton have been very pretty; they have been tantalizingly so.  Now the club directors are showing a stern hand, and are in effect stating that the side has not been nearly good enough and must be amended, so that the new Everton shall be a forceful, enterprising Everton.  The idea is good.  It has been plain all through the season that there has been something wanting in the Goodison Park side, and that has been team work and robustness.  In view of the Notts County game at Goodison Park to-morrow, the transfer news comes to the locals at a capital moment, and the big amount paid for the boy will be materially reduced by the crowd that will attend to see him in his debut match.  (I take it that he will be making his debut to-morrow when the rearranged Notts County game is played) Talking of Notts County there is a denial of the Gallacher story.  This is strange; just as strange, indeed, as the same club’s denials about their sides being lost when they came here and the reserves went to New Brighton-each side lost the other.  They say they did not.  I know different! 
EVERTON ON WEDNESDAY
Iremonger, Flint, Dinsdale and Kemp will all be absent from the Notts County team to tackle Everton at Goodison Park on Wednesday.  The first three are being given a well-earned rest, and Kemp is de4posed by Wren.  Streets will deputise in goal, Mitchell is to operate at right half, and Hilton, recently acquired from Grimsby Town, will make his debut in first class football.  Team; Streets; Ashurst, Cope; Mitchell, Hilton, Wren; Keeling, Staniforth, Widdowson, Davis, and Barry. 

NOTTS AD EVERTON
March 18, 1925. Nottingham Evening Post
Rearranged Fixture At Goodison Park
Match Twice Postponed
After two postponements, the first owing to the Cup-ties and the second owing to the fact that the ground was flooded, Everton and Notts County fulfilled their return match at Goodison Park this afternoon. The “Magpies” rested several of their players and Hilton their latest recruit, made his debut in first class football, while the home side included Kennedy at inside left and Troup resumed after an absence of some weeks. The weather was bright and there were about 12,000 present when the teams took the field as follows;- Everton; Harland, goal; NcDonald and O'Donnell, backs; Rooney, McBain and Reid, half-backs; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Broad, Kennedy, and Troup, forwards. Notts County;- Streets, goal; Ashurst (captain) and Cope, backs; Mitchell, Hilton and Wren, half-backs; Keeling, Staniforth, Widdowson, Davis, and Barry, forwards. Referee; Mr. A. Fogg, Bolton. Winning the toss Ashurst set his opponents to face the sun. chedgzoy promptly forced a passage and put in a square centre which Hilton cleared. Notts retaliated on the left Staniforth essaying a low drive which flashed across the goalmouth. A moment later Keeling outpaced O'Donnell, and passing into the centre Widdowson was left with an open goal but his shot struck the upright with the goakkeeper completely beaten. The County maintained a strong attack for some minutes, though they failed to improve upon a corner. Cope was penalized for tripping Broad and following the free-kick Ashurst effected a fine clearance and his partner accounted for a dangerous centre by Troup. Everton immediately returned on the left and Troup screwed the ball into the goal with nice judgment, Streets smartly fielding and kicking away. The Notts, forwards displayed excellent combination in the course of a spirited attack and good centres by Barry and Keeling were arrested with difficulty. Irvine broke away and running close in finished up with a powerful low drive, Streets bringing off a masterly save. Cope injured his leg and after a brief absence returned as Everton were pressing on the left. Hilton headed out a skimmink centre by Troup, and after Davis had a hard shot smothered by McBain, Wren joined his forwards in a taking movement and dropped the all in front, O'Donnell intercepting with his head. A free kick against Davis enabled Everton to get a footing in their opponents' quarters and Troup tricking Mitchell, tried a first-class shot which missed the mark narrowly. Barry dribbled through, and wound up with a perfect centre, and through, and wound up with a perfect centre, and although this was not improved upon, the “Magpies” forced another passenger, and succeeding to some clever passing. Standiforth had a fine scoring chance, only to shoot weakly outside. Hereabout Keeling was doing smart work, and as the result of one sparkling run he compelled O'Donnell to concede a corner, from which Davies made a great effort with his head. The home forwards responded with an incursion on the left, Streets saving from Troup at the expense of a corner. Chedgzoy placed the flag kick so well that the ball dropped on the face of the crossbar, and as it rebounded Kennedy put in a powerful drive, which the goalkeeper repelled with both fist. Irvine and in turn shot over the bar, and Broad was only a foot out with a fierce drive.

EVERTON SIGN DIXIE DEAN.
March 18, 1925. The Liverpool daily Post and Mercury.
“Dixie” Dean was yesterday signed on by the Everton club, this will set a lot of clubs at rest, about his leaving from Tranmere Rovers. Dean a mere boy of seventeen or eighteen years of age. He had brought to Tranmere Rovers more scouts than any other player had ever drawn to Prenton Park. Manchester United Aston Villa, West Bromwich Albion, Birmingham, Huddersfield, Liverpool, Everton Middlesbrough, Chelsea, and a host of other clubs had been to see him play, and all were impressed by the way he shaped. He got goals with excellent frequency, and although he had a spell of inactivity through being well guarded by defenders, who had heard of his fame in advance, he resumed his goal-getting recently, he was so well though of that a fancy price was put on his head as Tranmere Rovers did not want to part with him. However, Everton has secured him, and at a great figure when one remembers his years. It is probably the heaviest transfer fee that has ever been paid for a mere boy. It is impossible to state the figure with any degree of accuracy, but we can state definitely that Tranmere were asking £2,500 and a gift of other players from the club that obtained his signature, weather Everton paid that is another matter. It is highly improbable –but that was Tranmere's original claim for the treasure. Dean is a big built boy, very much like McLuckie, the one time Bury and Villa centre-forward with this saving grace –that whereas McLuckie had a pair of feet, Dean is not so troubled. The pair however, are very much alike in football style, in shot, and in height and weight. Dean has been well coached by Sayer, the Irish forward who looked after his interests and coached him during the games as well as off the field. The boy naturally gained prominence that might have spoiled, his temperament, but Secretary Cooke of Tranmere Rovers took him in charge and made arrangements whereby he should not be spoiled. Everton once had another boy on their books who started well but eventually fell though the frailty of human nature. And the sickly adulation of the crowd. It is hoped the crowd will not make a “god” of Dean. He is very human and has many boy-like touches. It is not so much what he has done as the way he has done it, that has impresses. He is natural footballer with a stout heart, a willing pair of feet and a constitution that will stand him in good stead. He has not appeared in all the matches this season, through injury and so on, but he scored more than twenty goals, and he seems to have “more in his locker.” He played for Birkenhead schoolboys as recently as 1920-21, so that it will he seen his rise to seniority has been electric.

TRANMERE VIEW OF THE DEAN TRANSFER.
March 18, 1928. The Liverpool Echo.
Dean; s transfer to Everton has led to another outburst on the part of spectators who imagine that the club was not wise, if it was legally correct, in transferring a boy who has drawn spectators by the thousands. Dean was the Tranmere hero. He was the apple of the spectators eye, and I daresay the claim of the spectators that he should not be transferred would be answered by some of this remark; “Let them mind their own business” Tranmere have fought hard against financial difficulties, and while they recognise the valuable help of the supporters, they say their actions are for the best, and they cannot be dictated to by a set of spectators. They had to realise on Dean while he was alive and well. It is good to see spectators of any club taking notice of transfers, and showing their disapproval of any leave-taking of a local boy. Manchester United did something similar with Kennedy, and the people who got the greatest shock over this boy's transfer to Everton were the neighboring club at Maine-road. Had Manchester City thought there was the least chance of a transfer they would have been there with a big cheque.
GIVE HIM A FAIR CHANCE.
In reply to your letter asking the spectators not to spoil Dean by sickly adulation (writes “Reverite.”) I must say it was a very wise policy on your part, but, being a great admirer of the boy. I am, through the help of your columns going to appeal to the spectators to give the boy a chance also encourage him, and I feel confident, if played to, he will give them the same reward as he has given his many admires at Prenton Park. I agree with you when you say there has been too much “Dixie” but I am sure all club supporters would have been the same as we have been, for he was our only forward as regards goals. I wish him and his new club every success. It is Everton's gain and Tranmere's loss.

“FAMOUS OLD-TIMERS.”
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 18 March 1925
Bee’s Notes
Your correspondent, Victor Hall, has given a great deal of pleasure to myself, as I feel certain he has done to most of the readers of “The Football Echo,” in the interesting biographies he has supplied of old-time players and officials of the Everton and Liverpool clubs (Writes Mr. C.J. O’Callaghan).,  I can recall most of the incidents he has referred to of the players of thirty to thirty-five years ago, and that is why I am writing you this letter to ask Mr. Hall (through you) why he appears to have omitted any reference to the Bootle Football Club of those days, and of that wonderful football artist of theirs.  Smart Arridge.  Bootle were then in “The Alliance,” which league afterwards became the Second Division that we have with us to-day.  Then, the two top clubs of “The Alliance” had to play the two bottom clubs of the “League” to decide which two out of the four would get promotion.  Nowadays the two top clubs of the Second Division automatically pass into the First Division of the League, thereby supplanting the two bottom ones of that division.  Arridge was on the small side, not more than 5ft 7ins, I believe of alight build, and fair hair (continues the correspondent).  In fact, my recollection of him is that he had an effeminate appearance.  He was a natural “left-kicker” sound in his tackling, and hardly ever wasted a ball, as so many modern backs do in their wild attempts to effect clearances.  I am speaking of the late ‘80’s and early 90’s, and I believe I am right in stating that the preference of most clubs in those days was for the big and heavy type of full back, hence the appearance on the field of Arridge in that position seemed to the uninitiated to be extremely risky, an opinion that was soon revised after one experience of his remarkable prowess in that position.  Arridge had first-class ”football brains,” and I am hoping that your contributor, Victor Hall, will dig up all the information he can with reference to Smart Arridge (who later on played for either Everton or Liverpool), and of other players of the one-time “Bootle” football club.
CLUB CLASSIFICATION
I have never before given myself the pleasure of writing you on football, or any other matters, and having once started, I find I have many other items I would like to bring to your notice (adds Mr. O’Callghan).  Here is one which might merit your attention.  The purpose of the classification of the football clubs in the Leagues is to ascertain in any particular season which is the best club for that season.  Most people would, I imagine, agree that the leader of Division 1, having reached that position by showing the most consistency over the period mentioned, was justly entitled to first place in the country.  I do not agree with this view, as I think, without laboring the point, the claims of the leader of the 2nd Division as well as the winner of the English Cup must be considered.  As an instance of first-class skill on the part of a Second Division club, we have at the present moment that of Leicester City, who look like passing into the First Division next season, and who were so narrowly defeated by the favourites for the Cup-Cardiff City. 
THE PREMIER CLUB
The football season is already a long one, and that may be looked on by the “Powers that be” as a sufficient reason for not prolonging it.  However, that in itself does not carry any weight with me, and I am hoping it will not do so with you, hence I now make the suggestion that the three clubs in any one season that have respectively carried off the honours of “The First Division,” “The Second Division,” and “The English Cup” should play off a smaller competition between themselves to decide which of the three is entitled to be acclaimed as the “premier club” in the country.  It might, of course, happen that one club would win the League and the Cup, and then the competition would take place between two instead of three clubs.  I would suggest that these matches be played on neutral ground, and that a special decoration be devised as a reward for the victors. 

NOTTS COUNTY’S VISIT
Liverpool Echo- Wednesday, March 18 1925
FREE EXCHANGES EARLY ON AT GOODISON
ENTHUSIASTIC EVERTON
REFEREE HELPS COPE OFF- NOT MARCHING ORDERS
By Bee.
Everton; Harland; McDonald, O’Donnell; Rooney, McBain (Captain), Reid; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Broad, Kennedy, Troup.  Notts County; Streets; Ashurst, Cope; Mitchell, Hilton, Wren; Keeling, Staniforth, Widdowson, Davis, Barry.  Everton had to face the bright sunshine in the first half, and the side got a great shock when Widdowson, who could have run the ball into the goal to beat the goalkeeper with ease, tried a shot that hit the right upright and cannoned back into play.  This was a real escape. 
LEGGED DOWN
Irvine was rushing up the field when he was legged down, but he got off without injury, whereas Cope was hurt.  Cope limped about, but was not so much hurt that he could not perform that nasty trick of kicking the ball away from the place of the free kick duly made known by the referee.  Referee Fogg emphatically told Cope what would happen if he was ungentlemanly any more.  Barry was a trouble to Rooney and McDonald, who nevertheless kept plodding along, allowing him no gift chance. 
FELL CLOSE IN
Everton were enthusiastic enough, but for a time they seemed to be over-eager, and unable to do themselves justice.  Kennedy roused the spirit of the 20,000 spectators when he got into the penalty area, where he fell.  Troup, playing excellent practical football, and swinging the ball about freely, was another man to raise the enthusiasm of the crowd.
A CURIOUS INCIDENT
There was a curious incident when the referee seemed to be sending Cope off the field.  The actions suggested that such a stern decision had been taken for some reason or other, but one was glad to see that it was simply a case of Cope being helped along from the middle of the field to the touchline in connection with an injured knee.  The crowd, which had been dumbfounded, later cheered the return of Cope.  Barry was the main prop of the Notts attack with fleet runs, and fortunately for the home side, O’Donnell, after a shaky start, steadied up in his length and direction; while at the other end Broad placed a far out effort full of sting a shade to high.  Everton were now improving.
A GLUT OF SHOOTING.
Before half-time there was quite a glut of shooting.  Widdowson made one sharp shot that Harland caught at the second effort, and when there was hands against Wren near the penalty area Streets did not display judgement in coming too far out, being a trifle lucky not to turn the ball into his own goal rather than just over the bar.  Kennedy made a lovely swinging drive that’s sent the ball inches over the top. The new-comer had certainly brought the necessary life into the side in the matter of first-practicability in the shooting department, and the crowd was not slow to show its appreciation. 
Half-time.- Everton nil, Notts County nil.
CUSTODIANS BUSY
In the second half both goalkeepers had to hand out early on, and when Keeling made a severe shot Harland was saved solely through the action of the ball being smothered.  The game had to be stopped through Chedgzoy receiving a body blow, after which Everton suffered through Notts County working the one-back games, Cope still being very lame. 
BROAD SCORES
Broad scored easily through Kennedy’s wise pass after 70 minutes. 

EVERTON 1 NOTTS COUNTY 0
March 19 1925. The Daily Courier.
EVERTON GET A GOAL AND TWO POINTS.
TWICE POSTPONED LEAGUE MATCH.
KENNEDY DEBUT
By S.H.H.
Everton and Notts County decided their Leaguer engagement after two postponentments; Cup-ties prevented the original date being carried through, while the whether conditions held up the re-arrangement date. Yesterday the conditions were ideal –the weather mild and the ground sufficiently firm to ensure a fast game. As the game went, Everton won by the only goal, and deserved to, but the number of chances wasted by both sides, was surprising. Widdowson and Staniforth were the greatest sinners, missing two “sitters” while Kennedy and Broad also lacked direction. However, Broad and his club mate made good their earlier lapses by engineering the winning goal, for it was from Kennedy that Broad secured the ball that enabled him to score. This was 26 minutes in the second in the second half, and though Notts County subsequently made numerous attempts to get on terms, Harland and his backs were equal to the occasion. While it could not be called a high-class game, there were nevertheless many clever pieces of work on both sides. Barry and Davies or work on both sides. Barry and Davies were a scheming pair, add in the opening half Rooney and McDonald had quite a bad time of it. After the interval, however, the Everton defenders took their measure, and as a consequence the pair were not so much in the limelight. On the opposing wings Keeling showed up well, but much of his good work went for nought owing to Staniforth's weakness, the inside men being slow in turning to account the numerous openings made for him. Twne had only the keeper to beat, but each time he failed. From an Everton point of view, most interest centred on the debut of Kennedy, who was secured from Manchester United last week. It can be written down as a successful one, and when he gets to know more of his club mates one can see splendid results from the left wing. Yesterday he was a little too anxious to shoot, and in consequence threw away at least one golden chance of going through when Broad left him with only Streets to beat; instead, he elected to shoot, and the ball flew high over the goal. Troup, who returned to the side after several weeks' absence, was in excellent trim, while the half-back work of Rooney, McBain, and Reid was not only forceful, but more convincing than that of the opposing trio. Alshurst and Cope, however, were more reliable than McDonald and O'Donnell, the last-named being inclined to hang on to the ball too much. As to the goalkeepers, all one can say is they did the little they had to do successfully. Everton: - Harland, goal, McDonald, and O'Donnell, backs, Rooney, McBain (captain), and Reid, half-backs, Chedgzoy, Irvine, Broad, Kennedy, and Troup, forwards. Notts County: - Streets, goal, Ashurst, and Cope, backs, Mitchell, Hilton, and Twne, half-backs, Keeling, Staniforth, Widdowson, Davis, and Barry, forwards. Referee Mr. Fogg.

EVERTON SMALL FORWARD LINE.
March 19 1925. The Liverpool Echo
Everton have brought a new life into their attack. It has been plain for some time that Sam Chedgzoy has been wearied through stress of work, and he has been rested for the match at Arsenal ground. Dixie Dean, who has been troubled with a bad ankle, gets his first show at centre forward, and in addition to Parry appearing on the right wing, Young Hargreaves has a run at inside right. Thus the little is the youngest attacking division that has represented Everton for nearly a generation. There is a lack of height and weight, but Dean is no small centre, and Kennedy though not blessed with inches in stature, has certainly got the stocky appearance that recalls McDermott, and can withstand a shoulder charge. The team reads: - Harland, McDonald, O'Donnell; Rooney, McBain, Reid; Parry, Hargreaves, Dean, Kennedy, and Troup.
WILL EVERTON ESCAPE.
By the capture of Kennedy (Manchester United), Millington (Oswestry) and Dean (Tranmere Rovers), following upon O'Donnell's arrival from Darlington. Evertonians shown that they are fully alive to the danger –be it remote or not –of relegation. Unless Preston or Notts Forest make a remarkable recovery and a big decline by Everton occurs, Goodison Park is not likely to be the ground of Second Division club next season. But is's a well to be prepared. At the movement Everton possess 26 points against 18 by North End and the Forest, but up this morning the Merseysiders have played 33 games against the other sides 32.

ONE GOAL DECIDES
Nottingham Journal-Thursday 19 March 1925
MAGPIES LEAVE BOTH POINTS AT GOODISON APRK
EVERTON 1, NOTTS COUNTY 0
Everton have been uncomfortably situated in the bottom half of the League table for so long that it was only natural that their victory over Notts County yesterday should cause plenty of enthusiasm at Goodison Park, where nearly twenty thousand spectators attended.  It was hard and interesting game, both sides contributing some excellent football, but had either eleven possessed a marksman more than one goal would have been scored, the finishing of both sets of forwards leaving much to be desired.  The Notts forwards missed several gilt-edged chances early in the game, and had these been accepted the game would probably have taken a different turn.  Still, one must not be critical of the County, who fielded four reserves and the form displayed was, under the circumstances, very satisfactory, particularly as several of the players sustained minor injuries during the game.  Everton were at full strength, Troup, Rooney and McDonald returning to the side, and they also included Kennedy, their latest acquisition from Manchester United.  He materially improved the Everton forward line which played with rare enthusiasm; but like the County, were unsteady in front of goal. 
GREAT CHANCE MISSED
Widdowson missed one great chance early in the blank first half, for Keeling eluded three opponents cleverly before he transferred to the centre-forward, who was unmarked in the goal-mouth.  Widdowson, however, was too eager, for with only Harland to beat, he tried a first-timer, which struck the upright and rebounded into play.  Widdowson twice tested Harland who only cleared one majestic drive at the second attempt.  Streets was often in action.  Chedgzoy’s centres being always menacing, and he had to fist a couple over the bar, whilst the winger once struck the cross-bar from a corner-kick.  The Everton attack were the more methodical, but the County had quite as much of the play, but they were as indicated, both unimpressive in front of goal before the interval.  The play was not so interesting afterwards, but the County applied the greater pressure, and were unfortunate in not being awarded at least one penalty, Keeling was badly fouled by O’Donnell as he was cutting in for goal.  The referee cautioned the Everton back, and awarded a free kick on the penalty line.  A minute later Davis had his legs swept from under him well inside the penalty area, and had to be assisted off the field, but appeals for a penalty were ignored.
HILTON IMPRESSES
It was shortly after these incidents that Broad registered the winning goal.  Kennedy worked a neat opening for the centre-forward, and although Streets got to the ball, he was unable to prevent it entering the net.  It was shortly after these incidents that Broad registered the winning goal.  Kennedy worked a neat opening for the centre-forward, and although Streets got to the ball, he was unable to prevent it entering the net.  Notts overplayed their opponents in the closing stages, but could not get on level terms.  Staniforth had one great opportunity of doing so, but after drawing Harland out from goal, he sent wide.  The new Notts, half-back line performed very well.  Wren was the best, although opposed to a most troublesome wing.  Hilton, apart from slowness at times in tackling, created a favourable impression in his initial appearance in the premier side.  Mitchell, too, was sound.  Widdowson and Keeling were the more skilful and enterprising of the Notts forwards, Keeling giving a sparkling display, despite the too close attentions paid to him by McDonald and O’Donnell.  Barry opened well but fell away, and Davis was not so effective as a consequence.  Ashurst and Cope were in great form, particularly the former, and as several members of the selection committee were present Ashurst must have enhanced his chance of securing further International honours.  Streets was a safe custodian.  Harland; O’Donnell, McBain, Kennedy, and Chedgzoy were the outstanding players on the Everton side.  Everton; Harland; McDonald, and O’Donnell; Rooney, McBain (Captain), and Reid; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Broad, Kennedy, and Troup.  Notts County; Streets; Ashurst, and Cope; Mitchell, Hilton, and Wren, Keeling, Staniforth, Widdowson, Davis, and Barry.  Referee; Mr. A.E. Fogg (Bolton). 

EVERTON’S SMALL FORWARD LINE
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 19 March 1925
NEW BOYS BROUGHT IN
Bee’s Notes
Everton have brought a new life into their attack.  It has been plain for some time that Sam Chedgzoy has been wearied through stress of work, and he has been rested for the match at the Arsenal ground.  Dixie Dean, who has been troubled with a bad ankle, gets his first show at centre forward, and in addition to Parry appearing on the right wing, young Hargreaves has a run at inside right.  Thus the line is the youngest attacking division that has represented Everton for nearly a generation.  There is a lack of height and weight, but Dean is no small centre, and Kennedy, though not blessed with inches in stature, has certainly got that stocky appearance that recalls McDermott, and can withstand a shoulder charge.  The team reads;- Harland; McDonald, O’Donnell; Rooney, McBain, Reid; Parry, Hargreaves, Dean, Kennedy, Troup. 

KENNEDY’S SUCCESS
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 19 March 1925
Bee’s Notes
Since January 17, Everton had won only a solitary League game.  It was against Nottingham Forest, and when Notts County appeared at Goodison Park yesterday the welcome “double” was completed.  Everton scrambling home by the only goal of the match.  For long time it looked as though the forwards would not get a goal.  There were the same old faults, lack of fire in front of goal and the dribbling when a drive at goal would have been justified.  Fortunately Notts County were no better.  It was not exactly good football, but it was eventful, and the best feature of it to the home supporters was the liveliness of the left wing, wherein young Kennedy made his debut.  He was a lively customer from the start, and while it would be unwise to judge a player on so early an appearance for new players always do the practical thing in front of goal and later fade out a trifle, it is plain that Kennedy has come to put life, movement, and judgement into the attack.  His moves were well-judged; he showed a fine discretion, and Troup and he paired off as though they had been playing together for some time.  It was a bright spot in the Everton attack, and the striking feature of Kennedy’s game was his willingness to shoot rather than engage in excesses dribbling, which has been an obsession with most of the men tried in the attack by the Everton club.  Notts were definitely good on either wing, Keeling, the right-wing, Keeling, the right-winger, having pace and a good hanging centre, and Barry having quite a good innings early on against Rooney.
VISITORS’ ILL-LUCK
Notts had all the ill-luck that was going.  First Cope, their full-back, was badly hurt, and was unable to be spry in his movements.  Then Widdowson hit the foot of the upright when all but Harland had fled, and when he could have gone up and walked the ball through.  Later Davis was hurt in the penalty area by McDonald, and Notts claimed a penalty kick with some determination, but Referee Fogg would not have it, Notts also had free kicks awarded them only inches outside the penalty area, O’Donnell being uncertain and shaky, and getting into the middle of the onrushing wing-forwards.  These might easily have caused a goal. Similarly, of course, Everton had their chances, one notable case being an effort by McDonald to work the McKinlay free-kick idea.  His strength was there, but the direction was at fault.  McDonald, nevertheless played his usual stout game, and with his verve I defence and Kennedy’s brightness in attack Everton’s case, continues to grow in possibilities, even though the newcomer is on the small side.  Harland was safe, when called upon to bestir himself.  McBain did better in defence than usual, and Rooney and Reid offered much help.  The local bot is quite a “find” if he loses the trace one discerns of adopting the ultra-pretty attacking schemes that are fatal when the ball is lost to the half-back.  The best back on the field was Ashurst, who is not fashionable, otherwise he would get a collection of international caps. 
WILL EVERTON ESCAPE?
By the capture of Kennedy (Manchester United), Millington (Oswestry), and Dean (Tranmere Rovers), following upon O’Donnell’s arrival from Darlington, Everton have shown that they are fully alive to the danger-be it remote or not- of relegation.  Unless Preston or Notts Forest make a remarkable recovery and a big decline by Everton occurs simultaneously, Goodison Park is not likely to be the ground of a Second Division club next season.  But it’s as well to be prepared.  At the moment Everton possess 26 points against 18 by North End and the Forest, but up to this morning the Merseysiders have played 33 games against the other clubs’ 32.  The remaining fixtures (excluding to-day) of the three clubs in danger of relegation are:-

Thus of Everton’s eight remaining League games, five will be played at Goodison Park and three away; Preston have to travel five times, and will play four games at Deepdale; while the Forest will actually contest six of their nine games on foreign soil.

RUNCORN’S VERSATILE ARTIST
TOM McGIVNEY
Tom McGivney, since joining Runcorn, has never missed a match in Cheshire County League football.  He is one of the most versatile members of the team, and has played in all positions in the forward line.  At present he is being tried as inside right and against Sandbach in the semi-final of the Cheshire Senior Cup he played one of his finest games.  Originally he was a centre forward, and in that position has scored more goals than any other player this season for Runcorn.  Prior to being signed by Runcorn he figured in the Chester eleven, who obtained his signature from Everton.  While with Runcorn his fearlessness, both in attack and defence, has been one of the features of his play.  He is a bustling forward possessed of good shooting powers. 
AN ATTRACTION
Everton Reserves play Blackburn Rovers Reserves in a Central League match at Goodison Park on Saturday, kick-off 3.15.  G.C. Menham, Northern Nomads’ goalkeeper, will play for Everton and Blackburn will also have a Nomads’ player in Dr. Farebrother.  In addition, Everton will play Millington, their new outside right from Oswestry, and the attractive team should draw a big crowd.  Everton; G.C. Menham; Raitt, Kerr; Brown, Bain, Virr; Millington, Barton, Broad, Houghton, and Weaver. 

EVERTON “BABES” AT HIGHBURY
Liverpool Echo - Friday 20 March 1925
Bee’s Notes
DEAN AND CO, UNLIMITED
The Goodison people could have wished that they were home to-morrow instead of being at Highbury.  It is a big ordeal for the new boys to go through, but Dean and Kennedy have a steadiness that does not suggest nerves, and they are not altogether inexperienced.  It is Dean’s debut, and all Tranmere will be looking out to see how he shapes.  They must not expect too much.  Similarly, the appearance of Parry and Hargreaves, on the right wing, shows that the officers of the club have not watched the work of these men in the reserve side with blind eyes.  Promotion should come to young members, and the life of the attacking division to-morrow “in town” should be sufficient to produce a belief that goals will be scored.  The Arsenal are not the best team in the world, but they have Brain-waves at times.  Surely in such circumstances we can thrust the Goodison defence, and leave the matter of swift, upward and instant shooting to the young fellows who have brought into the club records a youth and stenuousness that has been absent for some time.  Everton; Harland; McDonald, O’Donnell; Rooney, McBain, Reid; Parry, Hargreaves, Dean, Kennedy, Troup.  Arsenal; Robson; Mackie, Kennedy; Baker, Butler, John; Hear, Brian, Cock, Blyth, Haden. 
The Everton F.C, are playing St. Francis Xavier’s College boys at Newood, West Derby, on Thursday, April 2, at 3 p.m.  This exhibition match is always a very enjoyable one and teaches the boys by actual experience what first-class football is.  There is no charge for admission, and thus an opportunity is given to the unemployment and others or our less fortunate breathers of seeing a First Division team play –free, gratis, and for nothing! 

“DIXIE” DEAN'S DEBUT.
March 21 1925. The Daily Courier.
YOUNGSTERS GET A CHANCE.
Those that witnessed the game between Everton and Notts County, no doubt, left the ground none too pleased with the forward line. I doubt, however, whether they were prepared for the changes the directors have made in the side to visit Arsenal. However, be that as it may, Parry, Hargreaves, and “Dixie” Dean are given an excellent chance to make good. The test will be a big one, for although Arsenal are by no means a great side, they are nevertheless difficult to overcome at Highbury and for that matter Everton can count themselves fortunate if they secure a point. Kennedy, who did so well on Wednesday, renews acquaintance with Troup, and the pair should better understand each other's movements as a result. The half-back line gives confidence, while further behind look to O'Donnell showing that his poor display against Notts County was but a momentary lapse. The Arsenal will be without Donald Cock in the centre, and either the London Caledonian. A. Sloan, or woods will e given the position. Apart from this change, the side is the best the home club can field.

FAMOUS OLD-TIMERS.
March 21 1925. The Liverpool Football Echo.
VICTOR HALL RECALLS SECRETARY “DICK” MOLYNEUX, THE ABLE CLUBMAN .
In his long career as Secretary of the Everton Club, there was probably no more popular official in the League than Richard Molneux. In the days when the League was in its infancy and youthful, sturdy growth the personnel of the club representatives was rather different from those of the present day. In all enterprises, whether of business or pleasure, the pioneer days are the testing days when only the fittest survive. Today out premier clubs are on the whole well established, they have lived through the period of qualification, and have reached that stage of financial stability generally, and that period of professional playing success that has placed them among the leaders. Except for the fluctuating prosperity that attends any club accordingly to the prowess of its players in the League tourney, or Cup Competition, they were beyond the risk of immediate collapse.
ALWAYS A RISK.
In the pioneers days that happy position did not quite exist. Each season in those days was a risk. One bad season might see the best of clubs break up for want of public support. One bad season could be the ill fortune of any club that failed to produce a good playing and winning combination. The secretaries of those days were the mainsprings of every team. There were then no subdivision of duties and responsibilities as there are today. There were, for instance, no “team managers” to undertake personal control at all times of the players. There were few “ground” committees, looking after turf conditions turnstile and stand repairs. There were no “club stewards” to help at big matches, and there were no “supporters” clubs to run club concerts, and help financially in the many useful ways of those modern concerns. And usually there was no treasurer or finance committee to shoulder the anxieties of the club moneybags. Very few clubs had practical directors available for the frequent journeys to Scotland to search for new “talents” nor many experienced enough to appraise their value, or arrange suitable terms when actual signing probabilities existed. All these duties fell mostly on the club secretary in those days. He must be first of all a good judge of football and football players. He must be a good judge of character. He must be tactful. He must have a good memory for names and faces, and figures and dates. He must know bookkeeping and something about the law. He mist know the train services of every railway company and be prepared to travel long hours without food, rising early going to bed late. He must be courageous and cautious, he must be the soul of honour and yet when necessary he must be able to call a good bluff. He must be able to speak his mind at a League meeting, to think clearly; and act quickly. He must be good tempered and good humored, able to sing a comic song, or play a decent game of “solo.”
If he were all these then one might be a good football secretary –in those days! Such men were some of the company that included Harry Lockett of Stoke, the League secretary. J.J. Bentley, the League president; “Josh” Parlby, of Ardwick, Harry Allbut of Newton Heath, Major Sudell, of Preston North End, Williams McGregor of Birmingham the founder of the League competition system; Frank Watt, of Newcastle; John Allison of Salford; Tom Watson of Sunderland (later of Liverpool); J. Nicholson, of Sheffield United; J.K.McDowell, of the Scottish Association; J.H. Addenbrook, of Wolverhampton, Louis Ford, of West Bromwich, G.B. Ramsey of Aston Villa; J.H. McLaughlin, of Glasgow Celtic, Willie Wilton of Glasgow Rangers, “Bob” Lythgoe, of Liverpool F.A., and Dick Molyneux, of Everton. Amongst them all, “Dick” Molyneux was probably the greatest favourite; certainly he was the most energetic and industrious in the interest of his club. Blessed with a magnificent constitution he was able to undertake the constant wear and tear of his duties for many years during his stay at Everton without serious breakdown, though in later years, when he had severed his association with Everton and gone South. A decline set in that speedily ended a most promising career Richard Molyneux in himself had a most engaging personality. In his secretarial duties he was a glutton for work no matter how late the duties of the day or night previously he was early at his desk each morning, scrupulous and exact in his correspondence and records, and painstaking to a degree in all the technical details of secretarial work. With the players he was firm but always pleasant, and with all with whom he came in contact, he ably represented his committee and club. In social circles, no club secretary was better known or more popular. He was an excellent raconteur and on occasion could slug a good song, and was a ready and witty speaker whenever necessity demanded. Among his friends he was held in the highest esteem, and never forfeited their good regard. What better epitaph could any man desire? Of his adventures in Scotland –and elsewhere –in pursuit of players, papers could be written. Certainly one half of them has never been told. There is for instance, the story of his “stalking” a favour goalkeeper in Scotland for many weary months, in the fond belief that no one in the mining village (where the player lived) knew of his identify, only to get a wire of the actual evening he was to go down to sign his man addressed to him at his hotel in Glasgow. “Molyneux, Secretary Everton Club- -Hotel Glasgow. Don't come here any more. Watch on, Vigilance Committee, ---“ Then there is that other classic story about one of his own players telling him of another famous goalkeeper who was ready to sign for Everton of the club would pay him his usual bonus. The deal was completed while they all sat round a table in the hotel at Glasgow, where Mr. Molyneux had found the player sitting by appointment on his arrival.
MORE WOODWORK.
When the money was paid over and the accustomed “good health” toasted the newly signed “goakeeper” rose to depart. Then Mr. Secretary discovered he had signed a goalkeeper with a wooden leg. He was quite a good goalkeeper in his native village, but –he didn't come to Everton. “Dick” Molyneux was as well known in Sauchhall-street Glasgow, as he was in Liverpool and no more popular Englishman visited Scotland, although his object was well-known. The Scottish club officials were warm-hearted hosts, and Welcomed “the enemy” to their boardroom in the fond hopes that it was some other “henroost” that was going to be raided that journey rather than their own. His personal popularly was a great asset to the Everton Club, when it came to a business deal with a club either for a player's transfer or the arrangement of a friendly” match, which in those days were popular features between English and Scottish clubs. But on the point of the business deal, that does not imply that the Northerners abated their natural shrewdness in the avoidance of loss! But they all had a fond word for Dick Molyneux, always, and as has been said, what finer memory can a good man leave after him? Peace be to his ashes!

ANCIENT HISTORY
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 21 March 1925
Bees Letters
Smart Arridge, referred to in Bee’s notes in the “Echo” is a Welsh international player, though born in England.  His first professional engagements was with the Bootle team, for whom he played two years.  Everton then picked him up and played him in the first team four years as left back, the position he always occupied until he gave up football.  On Leaving Everton he was engaged by the New Brighton Tower team, and reminded with them four years, after which he put in two years with Stockport County.  He finished his football career with two years in the Bangor first team.  Arridge was a clean, daring and very speedy player, and full of resource.  He is now happily married and settled in Bangor, where he is highly respected. 

ENTER THE DEAN
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 21 March 1925
NEW BOYS TRIED AT THE ARSENAL GROUND
BY EVERTON F.C.
F.E.H. REPORTS PROGRESS IN FORWARD LINE
Everton; Harland; McDonald, O’Donnell; Rooney, McBain (Captain), Reid; Parry, Hargreaves, Dean, Kennedy, Troup.  Arsenal; Robson; Mackie, Kennedy; Baker, Butler, John; Hoar, Brian, Woods, Blyth, Haden.  Referee, Mr. H. Griffiths, of Long Eaton.  Everton today, at the Highbury ground, made rather startling changes and gave Dixie Dean, of Tranmere Rovers, his League baptism.  Kennedy and Troup formed the left wing; otherwise there was a complete change- Dean at centre and a right wing formed by Parry and Hargreaves.  Arsenal won the toss, and play began before 20,000 people.  The visitors at once made ground on the right, but they were well checked by Kennedy, and there were some vigorous exchanges in midfield, the Arsenal making progress by stages.  McDonald, however, cleared with a very hefty kick, and Parry and Hargreaves had another breakaway, but they finished weakly.
HALF-BACKS ON THEIR METTLE.
Arsenal took up the running through Haden and Blyth, and the first named looked very dangerous when McDonald saved the situation at the cost of a corner.  Further exchanges showed that both sets of half-backs were capable of nippy footwork with the result that much of the forward play was nullified.  The home left wing, however, was most persistent and both McDonald and Rooney were given plenty of work to do.  The most persistent, and both McDonald and Rooney were given plenty of work to do.  The next danger came from Woods, who got between the backs and drove in a left-footed shot which went just wide.  Kennedy and Parry were than in collision, and the Evertonian was kicked in the mouth, but he speedily recovered.  Arsenal were busy on the right, where Haden just missed the mark, and then Parry got off at top speed, and finished with a terrific drive, that passed just outside.
ARSENAL ATTACK.
So far the game had been pretty even, and though the pace was not sparkling it was full of incident.  Once Butler served up to his forwards cleverly, and Woods missed a glorious opportunity of scoring, while a moment later Blyth was equally at fault.  At this point Arsenal were enjoying the best of matters, and Woods, tricking the Everton defence, just failed to find the net with an excellent effort.  Everton tried hard to get going, and on one occasion three inside men made good progress, but Dean ultimately lost possession.  Troup tried to mend matters with a pretty run, but his shot was well off the mark.  Subsequently Dean was pulled up for offside, and a solo effort on the part of Parry ended in the leather going outside.
BAKER SCORES.
A free kick in favour of the Arsenal gave them an opening, and there was a regular scramble in the Everton goalmouth, but O’Donnell succeeded in getting the ball away.  The home attack, however, came through again in good order down the middle of the field, and Baker, who was lying well up, but Harland with a low shot after twenty-five minutes’ play.  Everton replied with a breakaway on the right, where Parry put in a perfect centre, but Dean failed to turn it to account.  Play was now considerably faster, the visitors putting more dash into their game and following upon good work by the half-backs, Kennedy sent in a swinging oblique shot which fully deserved to find the target. 
A FLASH FROM WOODS.
Another smart movement by Kennedy and Dean was well broken up by Butler and the Arsenal moved along again on the left.  They broke in, and O’Donnell, in trying to clear, drove the leather straight to Woods and it cannoned off the Arsenal centre-forward and flashed into the net, much to the surprise of Harland. 
EVERTON FAIL IN TOWN
GUNNERS WIN A SCRAPPY GAME
WEAK FORWARD LINE
Holding the lead, the home team continued to play with great confidence; though speedy, the forwards were scrappy in finishing, and McBain reveled in breaking up the line.  After a time the visitors made ground again, and Dean essayed another shot, but it failed to find the net.  Arsenal were next busy at the other end, but there was the same lack of finish with the result that the Everton backs were allowed time to effect their clearance.  Nevertheless, the Londoners were keen on trying to improve their lead, and the three inside forwards made attempts to overcome Harland, and once they almost succeeded through Brian.  He sent in a very hot one.  Just before the interval there was a very lively tussle between the home left wing and McDonald, but the latter succeeded in getting the better of the argument. 
WORTHY OF THEIR ELAD
Everton rallied strongly on the left but tailed off when they ought to have gone through.  As I have said, the game so far had not been a great one, though there was plenty to interest the spectators.  Arsenal were full value for their two goal lead at half-time.
Half-time; Arsenal 2, Everton 0.
The Arsenal went off in the most determined manner in the second half.  Haden getting well into his stride put the ball to Woods who headed in adroitly, but Harland effected a wonderful save.  The home forwards immediately came through again on the left, but this time Blythe put wide.
IRONIC CROWD.
Everton simply could not get going, and for quite a long spell their forward line was the personification of weakness.  There was little combination, and the shooting more than once made the crowd cheer ironically.  The home quintet, on the other hand, became quicker on the ball then before.  The visitors at length made progress through Troup and Kennedy, but it was the same old story of positive weakness in really getting to grips with their opponents.  McBain was kept busy in stalling off the raid of the Arsenal sharp-shooters, and in this he was ably assisted by Reid and Rooney.  Midfield play was followed by something like a concerned attack on the part of the Evertonians, and Kennedy tried a drive from long range, but it was not dangerous.  The contest continued to be one-sided in character, though it is only fair to the visitors to say that they did make spasmodic onslaughts on Robson’s charge.  Once Troup was unfortunate with a rising shot, and at the other end, Haden failed with a volley, which passed harmlessly wide of its objective.  Once more Everton tried to make themselves felt, and Dean and Kennedy got well past the home defence.  Kennedy shot strongly, and the ball struck he crossbar, a distinct bit of bad luck for the Goodison Park man. 
A FREE KICK GOAL
Kennedy scored for Everton from a free kick.  Final; Arsenal 3, Everton 1. 

EVERTON RES V BLACKBURN ROVERS RES
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 21 March 1925
At Goodison Park.  Everton introduced their new amateur goalkeeper Menham, and also Millington, from Oswestry, at outside right.  The opening exchanges were fairly even, and the first dangerous movement came from the Blackburn right, Kerr showing prominence.  Everton then took up the attack, and Weaver, who was displaying fine form on the wing, sent in many centres, one of which Broad narrowly missed. 
BROAD’S PENALTY GOAL
Some time elapsed before either keeper was fully tested, Menham made a fine clearance from Harper and another from Morton.  Miller missed a great chance of opening the score through over-dribbling, the keeper taking the ball from his toes.  Three minutes from the interval Houghton was fouled in the penalty area, and Broad converted from the spot kick.  Half-time; Everton Res 1, Blackburn Rovers Res 0. 

BURSCOUGH R V EVERTON “A”
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 21 March 1925
At Burscough, before a good attendance, both teams were fully represented, and Everton included Fairfoul, the schoolboy international at left half.  The home team opened the pressure and Balfour sent over a lovely pass which was badly missed in front of goal. 

STILL A PROBLEM
Reynolds’s Illustrated News- Sunday, March 22, 1925
ARSENAL WIN, BUT FEEL THE NEED OF A LEADER
By Chelstam
ARSENAL 3, EVERTON 1
Although the Arsenal beat Everton at Highbury by 3 goals to 1, and well deserved to, for they dominated the play from the beginning to the end, it cannot be suggested that the renewal of their centre-forward problem, caused by the accident to Donald Cock, has been overcome.  It was expected that the London Caledonians’ amateur international, Andy Sloan, would have been given the task of leading the attack, but they decided to reply upon their former leader, Woods, and the weakness in this department was again evident.  Even when one remembers that Woods scored two of the three goals, he cannot be regarded as a success, for one was an extremely lucky point, but he was never any better than in any previous game when he occupied the same position.  The main reason of the success of the home club was not due to any particular brilliance that they displayed, but because of the great weakness of Everton, for, to be candid, the famous Mersey club was about the poorest combination I have seen this season.
A RALLY
In no single department was there any striking personality shown; they were over-run so much that the defence was extended all the time, and the half-backs never had the slightest chance of rendering their forwards any assistance.  Consequently the attack was a negligible quantity until quite late in the game, when their rally was due to a causal disregard of their opponents exhibited by the Arsenal defenders.  The latter cannot altogether be commended for their one-back tactics when they had the mastery so completely, and, in the first half particularly, it was a frequent occurrence to see the visiting forwards penalized almost every time they crossed the half-way line.  Of course, the latter might have shown better judgement in watching the position, but the fact remains that too often they had no chance to advance in consequence of only one Arsenal back being in his half of the field for long spells at a time.  The home side scored twice in the initial period, the first goal being the outcome of perseverance on the part of their half-back, Baker.  He was the only member of the team who seemed to have any ideal of the location of the net and a desire to reach it, and it was appropriate that he should be the scorer, but in the rush of goal Woods came near to spoiling things. 
A LUCKY GOAL
Woods was credited with the second, but in this he was in luck’s way, for, in clearing O’Donnell had the misfortune to kick hard against the home centre, from whom the ball cannoned off the net.  I was sorry for the 18-year-old centre, Deans, Everton have just secured from Tranmere.  It was his first game, and he tried desperately to make a good impression, but, owing to a lack of support, he made little progress, though contributing many promising movements.  When opportunity presented he passed with judgement, but his colleagues were slow in accepting, though Kennedy once came near when put through, striking the crossbar with a fast shot, and the ball appeared to be about to enter the net when Robson cleared.  It was after this that Woods scored a very good goal from a pass by Hoar, the good efforts if Haden, the Arsenal’s outstanding forward on the other wing, having been ignored.  Another burst by the visitors gave them an opportunity, and from a free kick rushed ahead to score with a fast drive, while later he narrowly missed by a narrow margin. 

ARSENAL 3 EVERTON 1
March 23, 1925. The Daily Courier.
POOR DISPLAY BY EVERTON.
EXPERIMENT THAT DID NOT COME OFF.
WILLIAM DEAN DEBUT .
By F.McN.
The game at Highbury was a disappointing one from an Everton point of view, as the forward experiment from which the directors expected to learn much taught them little. As to how much accident accounted for the side's poor display is problematical, but the fact is Parry early on had the flight knocked out of him when he received a nasty mouth injury while Hargreaves limped throughout the greater part of the game. However, allowing for these mishaps, I cannot say I was pleased with the way the side as a whole went about business. There was lack of cohesion between the connecting lines, and for fully an hour this was reflected in an inept display by Everton.
LATE RALLY.
During this period Arsenal got three goals, and had they utilised half the chances that came their way even this substantial lead would have been more pronounced. Then ten minutes from time, when many spectators were getting ready to depart, Everton took it into their heads to justify to some extent their good name, and on onlookers were treated to a capital wind-up. In this period Kennedy got one goal, and a shade of luck might have brought him a second; while Dean gave Robson his most difficult shot of the day – drive into the top left-hand corner of the goal that the keeper did well to stop. The rally, however, had come too late, though, it but served to show that had the side exhibited anything like reasonable form in the first half the margin between the two clubs would not have been so pronounced. The first two goals by which Arsenal led at the interval were due to misunderstanding between the defence, McDonald and O'Donnell each leaving it to the other with the result Baker slipped between the pair and with a ground drive, found the net. The second point came through he ex-Darlington lad fiercely lunging at a ball when pressed by Woods, the result being it caught the centre forward on the body and rebounded into the net. Woods also got the third after the interval with a first time effort. There was much to say in extenuation of these slips, for it had been one long pressure on the backs, with the men in front of them unable to relieve them in any way. True, they made incursions, but they were of the briefest character, and as an example of the forward impotency I have only to mention that Robson handled the ball twice in an hour.
KENNEDY'S GOAL.
Kennedy's goal was a cleverly worked one. It originated through a foul just outside the penalty line, and the ball being slipped to the inside left, he took it in his stride and crashed it into the net. He and Troup got on well together, and on his two display's it is apparent the club have made a smart capture. Dean did not come up to expectations, though he showed several clever head touches. Probably, when he gets to know his comrades more he will adapt himself better. Arsenal were best-served forward, where Haden and Hoar excelled. Woods, however, was a poor substitute for Donald Cock. Teams: - Arsenal: - Robson, goal, Mackie, and Kennedy, backs, Baker, Butler, and John, half-backs, Hoar, Brain, Woods, Blyth, and Haden, forwards. Everton: - Harland, goal, McDonald, and O'Donnell, backs, Rooney, McBain (captain), and Reid, half-backs, Parry, Hargreaves, Dean, Kennedy, and Troup, forwards.

EVERTON RESERVES 1 BLACKBURN ROVERS RESERVES 0
March 23, 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury.
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 33)
For their fixture with Blackburn Rovers, Everton, who are in the running for championship honours introduced their recent signings Menhan, In goal, and Millington at outside right. The Everton forward line, which included Weaver and Broad, showed little combination owing to the ineptitude of the inside forwards. The Rovers started the game in prominent fashion, and extended the home backs, Kerr, in particular, being prominent. During the first half neither keeper was seriously troubled. Three minutes from the interval Houghton was fouled in the penalty area, and Broad scored from the kick. Early in the second half Menham brought off some good saves, particularly from Harper and McCleary, but Everton held the upper hand, and run out deserving winners.

BURSCOUGH RANGERS 1 EVERTON “A” 0
March 23 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
LIVERPOOL COUNTY COMBINATION.
It appeared that Burscough were to have the unusual experience of a home defeat, but they pulled their weight in the second half to such an extent that the Everton defence had rarely any rest. However, Hamilton, Callum, and Weir played a great game, and it was only following a corner that Burscough were able to get their orphan goal. Rigsby headed in and in attempting to clear Hamilton diverted the ball into his own goal. Burscough played well-conceived football in the second half, and Rigsby and Balfour were especially prominent.

EVERTON’S PERIL
Athletic News, Monday March 23, 1925
ANOTHER DISASTROUS DAY AT HIGHBURY
ARSENAL 3, EVERTON 1
By Achates
With both Arsenal and Everton badly in need of points, a desperate game was anticipated at Highbury.  In this respect the 22,000 spectators must have been sadly disappointed, for the proceedings at no time roused enthusiasm.  Everton never showed anything of a fight, even in the last ten minutes when they rallied a little, and Arsenal overplayed them to a greater extent than they have done any side this season.  Throughout the opening half it was practically one long sustained attack by the home team, but the two goals advantage they secured was not in proportion, except that their own feebleness near goal nullified their superiority.  The forwards were chiefly to blame, and for a long time the only efforts in the direction of Harland were by BAKER, one of which found the net. 
KENNEDY’S CONSOLATION
Arsenal got another goal later, but on this occasion they were lucky, for in attempting a clearance, O’Donnell kicked the ball hard against WOODS, from whom it rebounded into the net.  Everton had done nothing in attack, for the forwards were constantly offside.  The visitors defence was in a tangle in the first minute after resuming, and did well to escape further disaster.  But with the home players taking matters rather easily, Everton began to have more of the game, and Kennedy burst through to send in a hard drive which struck the crossbar, and would probably have gone into the net had not Robson been on the alert.  Ten Woods converted a centre from Hoar, though many more, delivered by Haden, were allowed to go abegging.  In the last ten minutes Everton had a good share of the attack, and with McBain putting a free kick nicely forward, KENNEDY scored with a very fast shot.
HADEN’S DISTINCTION
Though they won, the home team was anything but impressive, and mainly because they are again troubled with the centre-forward problem. Woods was entrusted with the vacancy caused by the injury to Donald Cock, but was not successful, though he scored a couple goals. He did not hold the line together at all well, while he was lacking in enterprise near goal.  This also was a failing with other Arsenal forwards, for only Haden was seen to any particular advantage, and was the outstanding figure in attack.  He had the measure of Rooney, and, giving a much-improved display, he centred accurately every time he gained possession. Brain and Blyth kept the play too close, and Hoar was not up to his usual high standard.  The half-backs were the meet satisfactory department, Butler holding the inside forwards of Everton in vice-like grip, and placing the ball well up tohis forwards. John was also a strong force, and once narrowly missed scoring with free kick, but Baker was too much inclined to take over the role of forward.  Mackie and Kennedy had not a hard task, and easily held the opposition. 
EVERTON'S RECRUITS. 
Everton were very disappointing indeed, though I am of the opinion that they will find their two young recruits, Dean, of Tranmere, and Kennedy, of Manchester United, valuable forwards. During the greater part the game there was a strangeness about their play which was probably not surprising, but near the finish they developed much better understanding, and both appeared to me to be clever footballers. The attack, however,was never a combined force, though in the later stages Troup also had a better appreciation of his colleagues.  The half-backs were so much overrun that they could not give the men in front of the many assistance. McBain was the best of the three, and came out of the ordeal creditably.  O’Donnell was the better of the backs, and was distinctly unfortunate in being responsible for one of the goals, but between the posts Harland did not exhibit great deal of confidence.  Arsenal.- -Robson; Mackie, Kennedy; Baker (A), Butler, John; Hoar, Brian, Woods, Blyth and Haden.  Everton; Harland; McDonald, O’Donnell; Rooney, McBain (Captain), Reid; Parry, Hargreaves, Dean, Kennedy, and Troup.  Referee; H. Griffiths, Long Eaton. 

EVERTON’S FAILURE IN THE METROPOLIS
Liverpool Echo - Monday 23 March 1925
PATIENCE
By F.E.H
Everton lost to Arsenal and some of the reports suggest that the forward work was all wrong.  Well, I beg the Everton board to have a little patience.  They won’t mend the side in five minutes; and they won’t help the boys’ chances if they make hasty chopping.  Wait a mo-ment! 
“I find a certain amount of diffidence-not to say  difficulty- in dealing with the happenings at Highbury on Saturday.  The directors no doubt had very good reasons for making the much-talked-of changes they did.  The unfortunate thing is that the scheme fell all to pieces.  The new forward line was, speaking generally, a complete failure until the last quarter of an hour of the game.  Then they wake up in wonderful fashion, and showed the crowd that they really could combine and shoot.  It was one of the most extraordinary transformations I have ever seen in a game, and left the spectators wondering what it all could mean.  I am still guessing.  It is unnecessary to reiterate what has already been said about Dean.  The youth undoubtedly has football in him, but in my humble opinion, he was not too hard and trying a task on Saturday.  The translation from the Third Division to the First Division was too rapid.  But he will come on.  Troup and Kennedy were positively sparkling at times, but the right wing rarely got into their proper stride.  The halves seemed to be unsettled, and O’Donnell was frequently far too hasty –as witness the clearance that presented Arsenal with a gift goal.

 A SPORTIUNG FAMILY
Liverpool Echo - Monday 23 March 1925
An interesting and worthy football record is held by the family of Mrs. Susannah Chadwick, Blackburn’s oldest business woman, who has just reached her eighty-third year.  Her husband, the late Mr. Thomas Chadwick, served on the committee of the famous Blackburn Olympic when they won the Cup, and down to its disbandment.  Two of her sons were Olympic players.  Edgar (the old international), Albert and Arthur were in first-class football as members of the Rovers and Everton teams; Walter Chadwick is the old League referee, and James Chadwick took an active part in junior football years ago.  All the family are still actively associated with the popular sport. 

UP TO EVERTON
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 24 March 1925
Bee’s Notes
“Old Blue” asks;- Is there any possibility of a 4 p.m. kick-off at Goodison on Saturday? There are thousands like myself who want to have a day’s racing and want to see the Villa.  To many this is the match of the year.  Perhaps you can use your influence.  I hope Everton will try “Dixie” again, but with Chedgzoy and Irvine alongside of him.  Probably the board will discuss the matter to-night at their meeting.  They would need to get a permit for a four o’clock kick-off. 

EVERTON CHANGES.
March 25 1925. The Daily Post and Mercury.
Aston Villa are the visitors to Goodison Park on Saturday and although like Everton, they done none too well this season, a keen game is anticipated. Everton are in the position that they cannot afford to take further risks and therefore they have made three changes. Brown is fit again and displaces Rooney at halves while Chedgzoy and Irvine form the right wing. “Dixie” Dean is given the chance to show his pace between two strong wings and as a result I look to his meeting with more success than against Arsenal. The team is: - Harland, McDonald, O'Donnell, Brown McBain, Reid; Chedgzoy Irvine, Dean, Kennedy, and Troup.

MORE ABOUT EVERTON’S PERILOUS CASE
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 25 March 1925
Bee’s Notes
It is something of a coincidence that a London follower of Everton, whose letter I give below, has picked a team that should fir the side that was chosen last night by the Everton directors.  The game is with Villa, and Chedgzoy and Irvine form the right wing and Brown returns to the half-back line.  As it is Dean’s first game with the new side, at home, and as the opposition is Dr. Milne, or his deputy, you can quite see how big a draw the game is going to prove;- Harland; McDonald, O’Donnell; Brown, McBain, Reid; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, Kennedy, Troup. 
Williams secured from Everton by the Blackpool F.C., and who had the misfortune to break his arm in his first match for the seaside club against Stockport, is progressing satisfactorily, but it is doubtful if he will be able to turn out again this season.  A X-ray examination shows that in addition to the bone being broken, there is a loose splinter. 
LONDON CALLING
From Harlesden, a suburb of London, I get the following uncommonly interesting letter; - I read your notes ever day with great enjoyment, and hope that, for once, you will pardon my encroaching upon your time.  I just want to send a word of encouragement for the Everton club and its supporters.  I saw the team on Saturday for the first time this season and, despite the fact of their being overplayed, it seems to me there is no cause for any feeling of panic concerning the future of the club.  On the other hand, I am satisfied that with a more judicious blending of the older players with the new, a team would be produced capable of very quickly restoring its lost prestige.  The great weakness was on the right, and while admitting that it is easy to criticize after the event, there is no doubt a mistake was made in playing, on the one occasion, three novices in the positions of right half-back and the right wing.  I am sure that Rooney, Parry and Hargreaves will all make good in time, but at present they need to be supported by players of greater experience.  As regards the left wing surely this problem has been solved to the utmost degree.  Kennedy is not merely a promising player; he is accomplished.  His style is typically “Everton,” and I believe him to be the best man in the position since the days of George Wilson and Settle.  How Manchester United could put with him passed my understanding! The reports of the match have not done justice to Troup who played delightful game, being strong and practical all through except upon one occasion when it seemed he ought to have shot into goal instead of passing the ball.  The best make mistakes, however, and the fact remains that the little Scotsman gave a refreshing display remindful more of the beginning than the end of the season.  I do not see that there is any need to be perturbed by the fact that Dean, on his first appearance, achieved little or nothing.  Throughout the game he received not a single ground pass while in anything like a good position, and with the ball so much in the air, he was always crowded out by Butler and the backs.  Although so little in the picture there is something about his appearance and deportment that portrays the class footballer; but were he an R.S. McColl he could scarcely have done any more without the ball coming his way.  He headed a fine goal and no one even yet seems to know why it was disallowed. 
LOFTING THE BALL
Everton’s half-backs were rather disappointing, but probably their constant “lofting” of the ball was done with the hope of getting it past the crowd of Arsenal man who, obsessed with the purpose of putting their opponents offside, were always herded near the half-way line (continues the Harlesden correspondent).  Brown, with his greater judgement and experience, might have made all the difference in this match, and it will be good news when we hear that he, Peacock, and Hart are again fit for service.  I could see little wrong with the full backs, who were overworked.  McDonald was very good, and O’Donnell, sending only a little more steadiness, which will come when the team as a whole settles down, should have a brilliant future.  Harland had no chance with the shots that scored.  He has a good style, and I doubt whether there are more than about three goalkeepers in the country good enough to supersede him.  I am convinced that, with the re-instating of Chedgzoy, Irvine and Brown, for next Saturday’s game, Aston Villa would get far more than they bargain for.  Yours, etc., EVERTONIAN FOR THIRTY YEARS.

SCOTT CASE
March 26 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
The Football Association have given permission to the Everton to institute legal proceedings against Darlington Football Club in respect of the transfer of Scott. It will be remembered that Everton secured the transfer of O'Donnell from Darlington in the first week in February, they also negotiating for the signature of Scott, the player they claim “Paired” in the deal. Scott, was given a free hand by the Darlington directors, and refused the Everton offer, and the next day the Liverpool Football Club officials went north and secured his transfer.

EVERTON AND DARLINGTON
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 26 March 1925
Bee’s Notes
The Football Association have given permission to the Everton club to institute legal proceedings against Darling Football Club in respect of the transfer of Scott.  It will be remembered that when Everton secured the transfer of O’Donnell from Darlington, in the first week in February, they were also negotiating for the signature of Scott, the players they claim, being “paired” in the deal.  Scott, who was given a free hand by the Darlington directors, refused the Everton offer, and the next day the Liverpool officials went North and secured his transfer. 

ASTON VILLA ON VIEW AT GOODISON.
Liverpool Echo - Friday 27 March 1925
Bee’s Notes
LOCALS TO SEE DEAN
YOUNG Dean makes his first show before Goodison Park spectators to-morrow, and they will, I am sure, take my word for it that the boy deserves a fair show. By all means give him applause and encourage him and all the other follows of the side, but have a care that it is not a case of painting the lily.  I happen to know that the senior members of the Everton side last week were quite content with the way he shaped.  Kennedy’s bright liveliness and Dean’s centre-forward speed, together with the return of the right wing and Billy Brown, should make the home side all the smarter and definite.  The Villa are always a huge draw in this city- they bear their own particular stamp of play, and cleanliness as well as a prettiness and effectiveness have been closely allied.  This I imagine the attendance will touch 40,000 spite of the races.  Everton; Harland; McDonald, O’Donnell; Brown, McBain, Reid; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, Kennedy, Troup.  Aston Villa; Spiers; Smart, Mort; Johnstone, Dr. Milne, Muldoon; York, Kirton, Surtess, Walker, Dorrell. 

FAMOOUS OLD-TIMERS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 28 March 1925
VICTOR HALL’S TRIBUTE TO TOM WATSON, BUILDER OF TWO FAMOUS TEAMS
Many years ago I met in Glasgow a journalist who wanted to know if I had “ever met Tom Watson, the Sunderland Club secretary?”  I told him I had seen Mr. Watson frequently acting as linesman for the Sunderland Club when they played Everton.  “Well,” said he, “if you ever get him in the humour in Liverpool, get him to sing ‘Bricks and Mortar.”  You will never have better fun as long as you live.  He sang it here for us at dinner of the S.F.A last night –and man- I’m laughing yet.”  Well a few years after that conversation the unexpected happened, and in the process of time Tom had become secretary of the Liverpool Football Club, and speedily became the most popular club secretary within twenty miles of Liverpool.  I heard “Bricks and Mortar” in due course, and, like my Glasgow friend, enjoyed the hilarious rendering of the rollicking song, as have no doubt hundreds, if not thousands, of people still living, for there was not a more welcome guest in Liverpool at any function relating to sport than dear “old Tom.”
ALL SPORTS.
Whether it was football, bowling, billiards, cycling, cricket, or baseball, his name was the first to be written when invitations were being drawn up, and when called upon for a song- which was always –he was faithful to his old favourite, and “Bricks and Mortar” soon had a joyous chorus for the words were simple, the melody easy, and the sentiment –irreproachable! Perhaps “Vin” will enshrine the words for us some day in his happy manner;-
  Farwell! To bricks and mortar,
  Farewell! To dirty lime,
  Farewell! To gangways and gangplanks,
  And to “heck” with overtime.
Again “Dear Old Tom!” who can ever forget that cheery, chubby face, the series of dimpling ovals radiating goodwill and happiness to all and sundry?  Who can forget the strange pawky accent, so reminiscent of his favoured Tynesider that, grating at first on our Lancashire ears, by and by sounded so natural, and became with familiarity warm and happy in its intimacy?  Who that remembers Tom when on his favourite topic of football can ever forget the broadness and sympathy of his outlook his wise foresight, and his warm-hearted generosity in all things?  If there was one man who had the supreme gift of creating esprit de corps in a football team of eleven men, then that man, without doubt, was the same Tom who beat, and hammered, and forged to perfection the steel-tempered football machine that was in his day the “irresistible” Sunderland team.  When that team took the field, with their red-and-white striped jerseys, you knew before the whistle commenced the game that, despite whatever the other side did, those eleven players would finish winners!    And you would be right! 
bar accidents, or something extraordinary, they won most matches, and won on their merits.  The team they were playing knew it too! Play how they would, they knew Sunderland would win.  And yet there was no “funking” it.  It was merely the triumph of mind over matter.  They were nothing particular to look at either, that wonderful Sunderland team of “all the talents.”  As men, they were not by any means a big team, just middle weights, the forwards rather on the light side, the halves middling, the backs sturdy, the goal, Eddie Doig!  But they knit well, they played perfect combination, they shot hard and often-and they were never “beat.”  When they got a goal or two up, they didn’t ease off, they went at it twice as hard.  They were trained well, not molly-cuddled, they were not over-paid, and they had Tom Watson as guide, philosopher and friend.  Once at a half time interval I saw the trainer take a new bottle-unopened-of whisky to the dressing-room.  It was a piercingly cold day with a bitter east wind blowing half a gale across the ground.  Evidently, thought I, the secret of Sunderland’s success is “Scotch!”  It was, but not in the sense I thought.  A moment afterwards I saw the trainer pouring the whisky into the hollow of his palm and rubbing it into the chests and backs of each of the eleven players of his team.  They skipped about like kittens that second half while some of their opponents were looking blue with the cold.  “System,” you would say?  Yes! “System and Tom Watson,” for he was the brains of the team in those days, though the public only saw the sturdy figure of linesman, well muffed up with a ruby complexion and the inevitable cigar just visible below the brim of his cap.  For in the day of club linesmen Tom had always acted, and was as good as an extra forward when advice was wanted in attack or defence.  Can you wonder, then, with that record, how the news went round like wildfire that Tom Watson was going to “skipper” Liverpool?  Can you realize the sigh of relief to those who had borne the heat and struggle of the early years when, at last, they could lean back and leave the destinies of the club in the strong hands of he who had “made” Sunderland?  And how worthily Tom bore out the confidence then placed in him time and the proud records of the Liverpool Club have since shown.  He fulfilled ever promise his earlier career held out.  He brought fame and fortune to his players and to his club, and enjoyed here-as he often admitted to the writer- some of the warmest and most cherished friendships of his whole life.  In Tyneside he had been an extraordinary popular favourites –in Liverpool, if it were possible to say no, that Northern record was more than surpassed.  He surrounded himself with warm, ardent friendships that were with him to the day of his death here, and that have endured after him, and will endure and ennoble the game of football while the Liverpool Club exists –and after that!  One of the secrets of his success in discovering new players was his own personal popularity.  Everyone he met liked him, and was always ready to do him a service.  So, when Tom wanted to know where a certain player was to be seen playing, or when he wanted another player’s record, or playing experience, Tom had so many hosts of friends all over the country and in Scotland, that he had merely to write to any one of a dozen whose opinion he sought, to get all the information he wanted.  He touched the wire, and back came the information.  There is many a player on a career of fame to-day who owes his first helping hand to the warm, generous heart of Tom Watson, and many a name on the football roll of honour that would never be there but for him.  May the soil lie lightly on you, Tom! 

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 28 March 1925
By Louis T. Kelly

• Everton’s small forward line v. the Arsenal game appears to have been pretty well wiped out
• Somehow the Everton team builders have found the job much more difficult that the cross-word problem in the matter of getting the bricks to fit in right this season
• When we consider that Everton seven months ago were one of the popular tips for championship honors, and that their only away win has been against the present spoonists, the position is surprising indeed,
• But their classic opponents of this afternoon have done very little better and it is a long time since Everton and Villa as a pair have been so low down the ladder. 
• Not indeed since the mid-nineties when Everton, we fancy, were saved on goal average from the Villa’s fate of being “voted in” again, or something of the sort.
• Livingstone, the Everton back, has been a bad cripple in recent weeks with a damaged ankle, and has only been able to walk with the aid of a stick
• It must be admitted that the club has been hard hit in several senses this winter, but that doesn’t explain away all the team’s shortcomings.
• Everton once upon a time had their Abbott; now it is a Dean.
• Everton should keep clear of the League’s last two all right

VILLA’S NEW METHODS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 28 March 1925
ADOPTION OF THE ONE-BACK GAME
DEAN’S DEBUT GOAL
POOREST ASTON VILLA I HAVE SEEN, SAYS “STORK”
Everton; Harland; McDonald, O’Donnell; Brown, McBain (Captain), Reid; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, Kennedy, Troup.  Aston Villa;- Spiers; Smart, Mort; Johnstone, Dr. Milne, Muldoon; York, Kirton, Surtees, Walker, Dorrell.  The popularity of Aston Villa was made evident by the cheer they received upon making their appearance and Dixie Dean, who made his debut at home,also came in for a special little cheer all to himself.  Everton, although facing a brilliant sun came near to recording an early goal.  Smart, the Villa right back, made a serious blunder and had to retrieve his mistake with a handling incident. Kennedy, who must have shows his colleagues the power of his shooting, was entrusted with the free kick, and what a great kick it turned out to be, only a fine tip over by Spiers prevented it flashing just underneath the crossbar.  Everton were grim in their efforts, and when Smart again miskicked, he let in Dean, who had a shot at goal, but found Spiers body in the way. The ball spurred right across the face of the goal, with Dean unable to get foothold, and so Talbot was able to dash in and kick clear.
A TIP OF WISDOM
It was all very enjoyable to the Everton onlookers, and when Dean headed out instead of up, he acted wisely.  A turn in the trend of matters arrived when O’Donnell cannoned the ball on to Kirton’s chest, which enabled York to go on and centre right in front of Harland’s goal.  Walker tried to puzzle Harland with a back-heeler, which misfired.  Then Kirton, gaining possession after Harland had punched away, drove straight into Harland’s hands.  So far the Villa defence, except Spiers, had not shown up any too well, which is unusual for two such defenders as Smart and Mort.  Irvine once dribbled on until he fell in the penalty area.  A shot a trifle earlier might have proved of much account.  However, one could not grumble at Everton’s form up this point, for they had certainly made Smart and Mort sit up and take notice Troup and Kennedy had a great understanding and Kennedy always placing himself for Troup’s back passes, and it was from one of these that Kennedy piloted the ball on to the body of an opponent.  One nice passing movement by four of the Villa forwards only came to an end when Macdonald cut right into it with a fearless tackle.
DEAN MAKES GOOD
When York, the Villa outside, found himself with a clear run through, with only McDonald between him and Harland, with Surtees and Walker well in line with him to take his pass, it seemed any odds on a Villa goal, but York’s intended centre was only a feeble lob into the hands of Harland.  The Villa adopted offside tactics, which is most unlike them, nut that it did not avail them anything was proved, when Kennedy bamboozed the Villa defence into the belief that he would allow the ball to go over and so claim a corner, instead of which he hooked the ball back to Dean, who slammed it clean into the net.  Never was there a more popular goal scored at Goodison.  While Dean must be praised form his shot, Kennedy must take the plum for his astuteness.  Talbot had to be carried off through a foot injury.  Walker dropped to left half, leaving the Villa to work with four forwards.  Little had been seen of the Villa left wing, although it must be admired that when Walker and Dorrell made a forward move they had to be very rocky watched by Brown and McDonald.  The first-named, by the way, was playing in quite his old form. 
ONE-BACK GAME ANNOYS
Naturally enough when Walker fell back the line suffered.  Many Everton advances were nipped in the bud by the Villa’s adoption of the one-back game, which was anything but well received by the large crowd.  Dean had done remarkably well.  Not only was his goal a gem, but he had ideas of what was required by his flank men.  Right on the interval he took a header from Chedgzoy’s centre and it was only a matter of a fraction of inches whether he had goaled or not.  The ball, however, was on the wrong side this time.  Half-time; Everton 1, Aston Villa nil. 
Although the full Villa team resumed, Everton were early on the attack, and Spiers had to watch carefully a centre from Troup.  It did not appear much to look at, but from the way Spiers saved it was more troublesome than enough. 
THE VILLA AWRY
It is a long time, if ever, since I saw the Villa play so poorly.  Phil Bache and his comrades would have been heartbroken at their display.  Not only was the pattern-weaving absent, so famous a thing with the old-time Villa, but there was no real cohesion among any single section of the team.  Even the artist, Walker, was subdued, and when his partner, Dowell, obtained an opportunity he threw it away with an atrocious centre.  When Everton retaliated by throwing the Villa forwards offside they reseated it.  Surely what is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander.  They evidently though not.  McDonald and O’Donnell, although the latter was rather inclined to kick at random, kept such a hold upon the Villa front rank that Harland had little to worry him.  Such was not the case with Spiers, who was poorly covered, and when Irvine had worked for himself a shooting position Spiers made a wonderful save with hand outstretched.  It was touch and go, for the ball was going away from him when he got his finger-tips to it and turned it from his goal.  Dean headed like a veteran, and he had hard luck when he directed Troup’s centre just over the bar. 
SPIER’S FINE EFFORT
He had worse luck, however, when Spiers edged another ball out of his goal when Dean looked all over a scorer.  It was rank bad luck for the ex-Tranmere boy.  Spiers must be congratulated upon his effort.  It was all Everton at this point, and Reid was only a matter of inches too high with a great drive.  But for Spiers Everton’s total would have been much greater.  He specialized in one-headed saves, and when Kennedy drove in one fierce shot, he stretched out a hand and the ball curled out of the goal when it appeared to be all but in.  It was a great shot and a great save.  Well as Spiers had played, however, he had to admit defeat immediately afterwards, when Reid beat him to pieces.  Troup placed a corner kick so well that Reid had simply to let drive, and Spiers was a beaten man.  This Reid did. 

HUDDERSFIELD TWON RESERVES V EVERTON RESERVES
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 28 March 1925
In the first three-quarters of the game between Huddersfield Town Reserves and Everton Reserves, the home team failed to take advantage of two good chances, and Everton accepted theirs very readily.  Broad got two good goals for Everton in the first half, and the Mersey side led at the interval by 2-0.  Cook reduced the lead after six minutes’ play in the second half, later Cook failed from a penalty kick for handling, by Raitt. 

EVERTON 2 ASTON VILLA 0
March 30 1925. The Daily Courier.
VALUABLE POINTS FOR BLUES.
FAMOUS CLUBS' LEAN TIMES.
DEANS FIRST GOAL.
By F. McN.
Everton gained two valuable points by beating the Villa at Goodison Park. From that point of view the victory was satisfactory, but the game did not reach the anticipated standard. At one time Everton and Aston Villa were regarded as the aristocrats of the football world, and a meeting between the clubs brought out all the finer points of the code. Both orgisations have now fallen on lean times in a playing sense, and the match only served to emphasize the frailties particularly in the case of the Villa. Judged by the standard the clubs themselves have set, the match was poor, and there was little to remind one of great traditions. The hard ground and a light ball exposed the faults. Whereas the old teams were famous for their ability to keep the ball on the ground, there were few occasions in this game when progress was made otherwise than by lifting the ball into the air. Everton were the better of the two moderate sides, and they well deserved their success, which must have been more pronounced had the inside forwards shown better understanding and more resolute finishing. Still, the Everton five were much stronger than the Villa quintette, who were never able to get going or to combine in anything like the customary Villa fashion. Walker was the only man of the line who demonstrated his worth.
SPLENDID HALVES.
Harland had an easy afternoon. He was rarely tested and McDonald and O'Donnell were never overworked. The halves always had the mastery of the opposition. McBain Reid, and Brown, all playing at the top of their form. The forwards gave an improved display. The lack of cohesive methods was noticeable, however. This may be remedied when Dean and his colleagues become more accustomed to each other's tactics. Irvine again displayed deft footwork and ability to dribble, but there were times when he could have parted with the ball to advantage. He preferred to shoot from awkward angles. Still, Irvine is a wholehearted and most skilful exponents, and occasional faults, probably due to his anxiety to do the best he can for his side, may be forgiven. Dean required nursing until he gains more experience. That he has plenty of football in him, I am convinced. He seemed a trifle shy to let himself go all out on this occasion, and he missed chances in consequence, but one could not fail to note useful passes and drives at goal. He heads the ball well, and on two occasions he diverted centres swiftly towards goal, suggested that he will be useful in this direction. Dean will develop with more experience of first-class football. He has everything in his favour. He scored the first goal when he coolly placed a centre from Kennedy into the net.
KENNEDY IMPRESSES.
Kennedy again impressed by his go-ahead methods subtle footcraft, and strong shooting. On his form so far, this player is a distinct capture. He is a real live inside forward who pairs off well with Alec Troup, who was in one of his most determined moods. He never accepted defeat. When he was robbed of the ball he did not hesitate to go back towards his own goal to get it, and he succeeded frequently. Reid scored Everton's second goal midway through the second half, with a first time drive, the like of which we rarely see. Troup took a corner kick, and before the ball dropped Reid met it and hooked it into the net so swiftly that Spiers had no chance to save. Teams: - Everton: - Harland, goal, McDonald and O'Donnell, backs, Brown, McBain (captain), half-backs, Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, Kennedy, and Troup, forwards. Aston Villa: - Spiers, goal, Stuart, and Muldon, backs, Mort, Muldon, and Talbot, half-backs, Johnstone, York, Kirton, Surles, Walker and Dorrell, forwards.

HUDDERSFIELD TOWN RESERVES 3 EVERTON RESERVES 2
March 30, 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 34)
There was every indication at half time in the match at Huddersfield that Everton would administer a severe check to Huddersfield's central League championship ambitions. In the first half Broad had scored two goals for Everton, whereas Huddersfield failed to take two good chances. There was such a promising revival of the home team in the second half, however, that even their own supporters were surprised. Cook scored two goals and Smith placed Huddersfield ahead by a goal headed from a free kick. The transformation in the second half was astonishing. Still Everton's defence was very good and their amateur goalkeeper Menham, handled much more cleaner than Boot. He showed almost an excess of zeal in leaving his goal. Broad's second goal rolled over the line after Boot had gathered it and lost possession. Bond Parry, and Weaver were the best Evertons forwards.

VILLA MASTERED
Athletic News - Monday 30 March 1925
THEIR WEAKNESSED REVEALED BY EVERTON
HALF BACK EXTREMES
EVERTON 2 ASTON VILLA 0
By Junius
The weakness of Aston Villa was laid bare at Goodison Park, and had the score recorded against them been doubled or trebled it would have been more in keeping with the play.  Everton were immeasurably superior in all save defence.  The Villa were but a shadow of the team one usually associates with the club, for the half-backs rarely inspired confidence, and the forwards also had a few opportunities.  The Everton half-backs dominated this game, not only by holding up the opposing forces, but in aiding their own forwards.  The Villa, much as they tried, were never allowed to settle down, and it was only raiding expeditions that they reached Everton’s last lines, and then they failed to put in a telling shot.
RECRUIT’S SURPRISE
Everton’s forwards were continually on the attack and the player who took my eye most was Irvine, who by feint and dribble, was always in the thick of it.  Kennedy was another player who inspired the line, though each of the five was generally on the top of the weak Villa half-backs.  The latest recruit, Dean, showed that he has much good football in him.  He was always willing and eager, but lacked experience.  DEAN had good support, and his goal, 27 minutes from the start, was very popular with the crowd, though it was Kennedy’s work that made the opening.  Gaining confidence as play went on, Dean was the marksman of the later stages.  A goal lead at the interval was a poor indication of Everton’s superiority, for the first half was completely theirs.  That the Villa called the offside theory repeatedly to their relief seemed to me to indicate a lack of confidence in their resources.  The second half again was Everton’s and after 22 minutes REID converted a flag kick, well placed by Troup. 
THE MASTER MIND
Only occasionally did the Villa forwards cause any anxiety to the home defenders and, as in the first portion, only Dorrell and Walker gave glimpses of neat and effective combination.  The Villa were mastered.  They were very frail and impressed no one.  As I have indicated, the Everton half-backs held the key of the situation.  McBain was the master mind, for he completely held the inside forwards and found ample time to co-operate with his own van.  Brown’s return gave added strength and Reid completed a capable line.  The Villa half-backs were as woefully weak as Everton’s were strong.  They were rarely a connecting link, and most of their energy was directed towards arresting the movements of the home forwards.  Full back play left something to be desired on both sides.  McDonald and O’Donnell equal to most demands, put too much power into their kicks and often had the ball returned.  The ex-Darlington player too frequently kicked out of play.  Both Smart and Mort opened shakily, but they improved later.  Harland had quite an easy task, Spiers was a busy man and kept down the toll of goals to the narrowest limit.  Everton; Harland; McDonald, O’Donnell; Brown, McBain (Captain), Reid; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, Kennedy, and Troup.  Aston Villa; Spiers; Smart, Mort; Johnstone, Talbot, Muldroon; York, Kirton, Sutees, Walker, and Dorrell.  Referee; Mr. W.S. Turnbull, Durham.

TWO TEAMS IN DESPAIR!
Birmingham Daily Gazette - Monday 30 March 1925
SPIERS BRILLIANCE FAIL TO INSPIRE VILLA
EVERTON’S RECRUITS
EVERTON 2 ASTON VILLA 0
By Touchstone
Aston Villa and Everton appear to be suffering from an end-of-the-season feeling, combined with a despondency which would lead one to suggest they have become reconciled to the ignominy of failure upon failure.  In view of the positions their occupy in the League table, one might have expected that in their meeting at Goodison Park on Saturday they would have been prepared to risk their necks.  Instead they played listless, vapid, irksome, namby-pamby football that could have been staged in a drawing-room without ruffling the pile of the carpet there.  Really, no one could have thought that points or goals were almost a vital consideration for both teams.  Everton won as they well deserved to do. They might even have won by five goals instead of two, and then they would have had littlejustification for pride, for their chances did not come from their own initiative as much as from Villa's short-comings and poor tactics.  They must take credit for this, however—when they found themselves happily positioned they at least made a bid for goal. The same cannot be said of Villa.  - A more aimless attack hasrarely been attempted. The forwards were at sixes and seven with each other, the half-backs had ideas they could not put into execution for want of accuracy in passing, and the backs made the mistake of trying to beat the opposition by bad tactics, mainly consisting of off side traps that often led to utter confusion. 
BREACHES OF RULES. 
The referee added to this confusion by permitting obvious breathes of the rules at one time, and making up for it by unjustified penalties at another.  Both Everton's goals came directly from mistakes on the part of Villa's backs. The first, 25 minutes from the start, was scored by Dean, an 18-year-old centre-forward obtained little more than a week ago from Tranmere. He was favoured by a pass from Kennedy, another recruit, from Manchester United, who should never have been allowed to get near the ball. He hooked it hack from the line midway between the corner flag and the goal, Smart failing to hold him back after missing a kick that was intended to clear.  The second goal, after 67 minutes' play, was attributable to the failure of as offside plot. While Mort stood on the half-way line to appeal, Dean made progress, finishing up with a great drive that Spiers cleverly turned round the post with one hand when the ball was going away from him.  From the corner kick, however, Reid, a very persevering left half with an admirablepropensity for shooting, drove hard and true through a ruck of players into the net beyond. 
DEFENSIVE ERRORS. 
But for those detersive errors it is doubtful if Everton would have scored.  Dean, Kennedy, and Irvine wasted absolute gifts, through atrocious finish, and at other times, though progress was easily accomplished by the two wingers, Chedgzoy and Troup, there was a lamentable lack of resource in front of goal.  On the other hand, it has to be recorded that Spiers on seven different occasions made saves that stamp him as one of the best, if not the best goalkeeper I have seen this season. Shots from point blank range, well aimed and powerful, were brilliantly turned from their course.  Only one other man on the field could claim a distinction equal to that of Spiers.  That was McBain, the home centre-half, who not only broke up all Villa's sallies, but literally drove his own forwards to attack after attack. 
THE OUTSNADING MAN
In Villa’s forward department Walker, himself below usual form, was still the outstanding man, and the only one to come anywhere near scoring.  Harland saved one of his shots dramatically while on his knees attempting to recover position after going over in a collision with Surtees.  York and Dorrell revealed occasional flashes of brilliance, but generally lacked opportunities a circumstance largely due to the faulty passing from the half-backs.  Of the latter Muldroon was probably the best.  Johnstone and Troup indulged in many duels of close control, more often than not leading only to waste of time and loss of effect, however, clever it may have been.  Everton; Harland; McDonald, O’Donnell; Brown, McBain (Captain), Reid; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, Kennedy, Troup.  Aston Villa; Spiers; Smart, Mort; Johnstone, Talbott; Muldroon, York, Kirton, Surtees, Walker, Dorrell.  Referee; Mr. W.S. Turnbull (Durham).

WELCOME LITTLE STRANGER!
Liverpool Echo - Monday 30 March 1925
EVERTON’S WIN OVER OLD FOEMEN FROM ASTON
By Stork
Yes? Everton beat the Villa, but not the real Villa, and for that reason I would ask the Everton supporters to stay their hand and not settle themselves to the idea that all Everton’s troubles are over.  There was still some weaknesses in the side, and until these are righted I would ask you to “wait and see.”
The Aston Villa team were but a poor sample of what the real Villa are capable of.  I am not trying to belittle Everton’s win, for on the play the two-goal victory should have been considerably augmented, and but for a wonderful bit of goalkeeping it would have been.  Spiers saved his goal time and time again, which tells that more shots were put in by the Everton forwards than have been the case for some time, but the real reason of their win was the weak Villa half-back and the strong work of Reid, McBain and Brown. 
NEVER A MENACE
This trio easily held up the Villa front line, which was never a real menace at any particular point, in fact, I have never seen the Villa side play so poorly.  They were never a connecting link, and what danger they showed emanated from the left wing, but even the craftsman Walker and his partner Dorrell could accomplish little against Brown, who was on his best form.  Smart and Mort were not the confident pair I know them.  The former was never happy against Kennedy and Troup and only Spiers in goal acquitted himself like a true Villa player.  So much for the Villa.  Now what about Everton?  They won because they had inside forwards who were all out for a shot at goal and a desire to go forward by the shortest route.  Kennedy was to my mind the “star” man of the line, for he schemed, shot, and used his speed to the best advantage.  The first goal was due to his scheming.  Most of the onlookers thought he would allow the ball to go over for a corner, but in the twinkling of an eye he changed his ideas and from almost off the line he hooked the ball back to the middle, where Dean met the ball before it touched earth and slammed it into the net.  This was not the only thing Dean did. 
ABOUT DIXIE DEAN
I liked the way he directed his passes to the wing.  They were not square, but just far enough forward to enable his wing colleagues to take them on the run.  Dean played really well, and with average luck would have had at least another goal to his credit.  Reid scored the other point from Troup’s flag kick.  Irvine also shot without luck.  Troup and Kennedy had a good understanding, and were undoubtedly the better wing, for Chedgzoy was only moderate; but it must be remembered that he received a knock early on.  O’Donnell and McDonald defended stubbornly, but they ballooned the ball too often.  The ex-Darlington player was wild in his clearances at time, but once he has curbed his enthusiasm he should settle down to become a good defender.  Harland had little to do, so well was he covered. 

RESERVES NEW
Liverpool Echo- Tuesday, March 31, 1925
Bee’s Notes
The postponed Central league match between Liverpool Reserve and Everton Reserve take place at Anfield to-morrow, and Everton have chosen the following side; Kendall; Raitt, Kerr; Rooney, Bain, Virr; Parry, Wall, Broad, Broad, Chadwick, Weaver.  Kick-off 3.15.